Thistledown was founded by Master of Wine Giles Cooke with a vision to craft elegant, textural Australian wines that showcase the true character of their vineyards. Early access to historic, previously undervalued Old Vine Grenache and Shiraz sites helped Giles establish a reputation for producing some of the country’s most compelling wines. His mission is to share the stories of these exceptional vineyards with a global audience, combining heritage fruit with meticulous winemaking.

Viticulture

The Shiraz fruit comes from the Moray Park vineyard in the McLaren Flat sub-region of McLaren Vale, a region known for its geological diversity and exceptional Shiraz expression. Grapes are picked on the way up to preserve vibrancy, freshness, and energy.

Winemaking

The Cunning Plan Shiraz is crafted with minimal intervention. Grapes are gently crushed to preserve whole berries, allowed a 4-day soak, and then fermented with wild yeasts. After fermentation, the wine is pressed to French oak, with minimal or no new oak depending on the vintage, for 10 months.

Tasting Note

Displays rich, ripe plum and blackberry flavours with a succulent, full-bodied palate. Lively spice notes integrate seamlessly with fine, velvety tannins, producing a wine of depth, elegance, and balance.

Food Matching

Pairs wonderfully with hearty stews, Asian hotpots, and cold meat cuts.

Awards

• The Wine Advocate 92 Points – “Vibrant, high-toned and floral, with attractive red and purple fruits, energetic acid and tannins embossed into the very experience. Cracking value for the money and eloquently expresses McLaren Vale.” EL, October 2024

• Huon Hooke 93 Points – “Sweet floral/lemon notes on the nose of graphite, pepper and earthy spice. Full and rounded palate with powdery tannins and a long finish. A Shiraz of serious dimension, flavour and structure.” HH, November 2024

Technical Details

Varieties: Shiraz 100%
Oak Ageing: 10 Months in 300 L French Oak, 100% of wine, 10% new oak

We strive to provide fast and reliable delivery, with Free Express Delivery on orders over £150 (UK Mainland only).

Express Delivery

Orders placed by 2pm (Monday to Friday) are dispatched the same day.
Orders placed after 2pm Thursday arrive on Monday.
Orders placed after 2pm Friday arrive on Tuesday.
A signature is required, with GPS-confirmed tracking.
Bank Holidays and seasonal holidays are not considered working days by couriers.

Standard Delivery

Economy (2-3 working days) – Orders placed before 2pm (Monday to Friday) are dispatched the same day.

Learn more about our Delivery Service here.