2016 S.C. Pannell Nebbiolo, Adelaide Hills

Stephen Pannell is one of the most respected winemakers in Australia. After working for wineries such as Wirra Wirra, BRL Hardy and numerous vintages around the world with the likes of Domaine des Comtes Lafon (Burgundy), Chateau Mouton-Rothschild (Bordeaux) and G.D. Vajra in Barolo; he and his wife Fiona decided to returned from Piedmont to start their own winery in McLaren Vale in 2004. Stephen's philosophy is as follows: “The most important thing about wine is that it should taste like it comes from somewhere. Grape varieties express that. They’re like the colours that paint the landscape. So, as a winemaker, I try to get out of the way and not manipulate them too much." Why do we like it? The number of Italian grape varieties planted in Australia has raised in recent years due to the diversity it can bring for consumers but it is worth noting that Stephen has been making his Nebbiolo since 2005 and was at the forefront of the finest example of the grape made in the country. It is such an authentic Nebbiolo showing great savoury character, made with extended maceration on skins. The palate is outstanding with ripe cherry notes, dried violet with a touch of leather, the tannins are present but not dominant.  You could decant this wine 2 hours before serving so it can show his full potential!   Grape           Nebbiolo Country        Australia                                Region          Adelaide Hills                             Vintage         2016