- Local Loves
What the locals are loving: SC Pannell
On your next visit to McLaren Vale, stop by Pannell Enoteca to sample a mix of traditional South Australian varietals and something a little more Mediterranean.
Wine royalty is more than just a metaphor in South Australia’s McLaren Vale region. Since 1973, winemakers have gathered to show and celebrate their wonderful work at the annual McLaren Vale Wine Show, and each year the highest scoring winemakers are crowned as the Bushing Monarchs. Stephen Pannell is the only winemaker across the region to be crowned King on four occasions.
Next-gen winemaking
Before launching his namesake wine label SC Pannell in 2004, Stephen had already been named the International Red Winemaker of the year at the International Wine Challenge 1999. “The choice of McLaren Vale was founded in the confidence of a region with an already established reputation, but more importantly, one that had the potential for a groundbreaking future,” explains SC Pannell General Manager, Tom Grant. “Stephen’s passion for creating an eclectic and colourful expression of new wine styles has been shaped by his extensive winemaking career both locally and abroad.”
Embracing a minimal approach to the winemaking process, the team behind SC Pannell champion both established regional, styles such as pinot noir and shiraz, as well as a strong belief that McLaren Vale’s key characteristics lend themselves to a new generation of classics, or ‘future signatures’ as Tom describes them. Grenache, Tempranillo, Touriga Nacional, Aglianico, Nero d’Avola and Fiano are among the varietals that SC Pannell have in mind, crediting a Mediterranean-like climate and the ancient geology of the region. They currently grow a total of 20 varieties across 46 hectares, with vineyards in the Adelaide Hills as well as McLaren Vale.
Try these SC Pannell wines
Sucker for a charcuterie board? Pick up a bottle of the SC Pannell Tempranillo Touriga. “We always describe this as the ultimate charcuterie wine, be it salumi, Serrano-style ham, grilled chorizo or hard cheeses based on ewe’s milk,” says Tom.
For a crowd-pleasing red to impress everyone at the dinner party, opt for the SC Pannell Grenache Shiraz Touriga. “This is our all-rounder, Swiss army red wine that goes with just about everything,” Tom says.
If a vibrant white with a bit of green fruit character is more your style, the SC Pannell Sauvignon Blanc is for you. “Freshly caught and crumbed whiting or a fish taco loaded with herby salsa is the perfect match,” Tom suggests.
At the cellar door
A range of tasting flights are available at the SC Pannell winery, Pannell Enoteca, in McLaren Vale, showcasing the region. Peckish? Choose from a small menu of salty snacks to accompany, and of course there’s a drinks menu for a full glass of your favourite drop. Book ahead if you’re planning to visit with a group of seven or more.
Products featured are available from 02/08/23 to 05/09/23, while stocks last. Some products or varieties featured may not be available in all stores.
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