Best of the Black Market Unwrapped : Shiraz Selection

This is Reserve shiraz, only made in the best years and in tiny quantities. You'll find layers of dark fruit - plum, blackberry and cherry compote - with spice, dark chocolate, earthy notes and a savoury edge that speaks to both the old vines and McLaren Vale itself. It's full-bodied but not clumsy, plush but structured, with tannins that are firm yet polished. The finish is long and layered, the kind that makes you pause before you even think about the next sip and just take a moment to enjoy yourself. Some of the fruit here comes off a McLaren Vale vineyard planted back in 1910 - gnarly old bush vines that have been tended by three generations of the same family. It's a patch of dirt with deep clay soils, east-west rows to shield the fruit from the harsh summer sun, and roots that stretch forever thanks to access to good water. Translation? Vines that dig deep and deliver concentration, balance and serious power. This wine has helped put this producer firmly on the map - you'll know what we mean as soon as you see the label. It's approachable enough to drink young if you can't wait, but built for the cellar if you've got patience. Either way, it's a reserve-level shiraz with history in its bones and proof in the pudding.

It's always assuring to be recognised by your peers and the Gold - McLaren Vale Wine Show, is all the assurance needed for us. A thoroughly modern wine that still holds onto the unmistakably regional flavours that the soil, climate and conditions impart. Ripe cherries, raspberries and strawberries wrap themselves around an energetic acid line and a hearty spice profile. This wine screams "drink me now", it's juicy and fleshy and vibrant in all of the ways that we love. Sure, if you age this wine it will develop, it may even improve, but it will definitely change. Well, we're gonna drink ours now, we don't want it to change at all.

This is Barossa shiraz possessing both muscle and manners. Deeply coloured, seriously expressive and stacked with medals and awards, it comes from a prime Western Ridge patch that consistently delivers the goods. Structure, balance and confidence. No tricks. Just a seriously well-made shiraz that hits the brief beautifully. As soon as you pop the top, the aromatics set the tone straight away. Blackberry and dark cherry lead, followed by black olive, baking spice and a savoury edge that keeps things interesting. French oak is there, but it’s tucked in neatly - adding shape and subtle toast without getting in the way. On the palate, it’s full-flavoured but controlled. Rich fruit runs deep, tannins are firm yet silky, and everything flows into a long, composed finish that hangs around in the best way. It’s drinking beautifully now with a bit of air, but there’s plenty under the hood if you feel like laying it down. Great wine.