A flagship Shiraz of power and grace, Mitolo Marsican is an ode to heritage and excellence. Deeply concentrated yet effortlessly refined, it weaves black cherry, plum and dark chocolate with savoury undertones of coffee, spice and earth. Plush, velvety tannins and poised acidity create a wine of structure, longevity and remarkable polish—worthy of its mythic namesake.
Tasting Notes & Experience
Opulent aromas of dark cherry, blackberry and plum mingle with notes of smoked game, coffee, clove and liquorice. The palate unfolds in layers—dense fruit, mocha and spice carried by velvety tannins. Finely grained structure and lively acidity deliver lift and precision, leading to an enduring finish of balance and complexity.
Key Details
-
Winery: Mitolo Wines
-
Grape: Shiraz
-
Region: McLaren Vale, South Australia
-
Vintage: 2015
-
ABV: 14.0%
-
Volume: 750ml
-
Other: Icon Series; Low-yield fruit; Hand-crafted small lots
Craftsmanship & Story
Named after the rare Marsican bear native to Italy’s Abruzzo, this wine honours Frank Mitolo’s father, Bruno, whose Abruzzese ethos of “forte e gentile”—strong and gentle—still defines the estate. Marsican is sourced from the Lopresti family vineyards in McLaren Vale, where low-yield vines and meticulous oak ageing create a Shiraz of immense depth and longevity.
Special Features
A masterwork of structure and intensity, Marsican combines estate-grown fruit from prized coastal vineyards with precision winemaking. Matured in fine French oak, it balances opulence with refinement. Its plush, graphite-textured tannins and savoury edge make it one of McLaren Vale’s most distinguished and age-worthy Shirazes—crafted to honour heritage and endure time.
Recognition & Accolades
Highly acclaimed by international critics across multiple vintages:
-
97/100 Points – Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate (2016 vintage)
-
94/100 Points – Maryann Worobiec, Wine Spectator (2016 vintage)
-
93/100 Points – Ned Goodwin, Wine Companion (2016 vintage)
-
97/100 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2015 vintage)
-
96/100 Points – Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate (2015 vintage)
-
96/100 Points – Jeremy Oliver (2014 vintage)
-
94/100 Points – Wine & Spirits Magazine (2014 vintage)
-
92/100 Points – Wine Enthusiast (2014 vintage)
-
91/100 Points – The Wine Front (2014 vintage)
These outstanding accolades affirm Marsican’s position as one of McLaren Vale’s most revered Shirazes—intense, elegant and built for the ages.
Food Pairings
Rich and full-bodied, McLaren Vale Shiraz pairs beautifully with flame-grilled steak, roast lamb or smoky barbecue. The ripe dark fruit and spice complement aged cheddar, venison and charcuterie, while its velvety texture also works wonderfully with slow-cooked beef or spiced ribs for a truly indulgent match.
Perfect for Gifting or Sipping
A statement collector’s Shiraz of exceptional pedigree, presented in true luxury. Ideal for anniversaries, milestones or distinguished cellars, Marsican embodies Mitolo’s dedication to artistry and Italian-Australian heritage—strong and gentle in equal measure.
Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery
Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.