Red Wine

Red wine is a type of wine made from red grapes, which are dark purple to black in colour when they are unripe. It is produced by the complete or partial fermentation of crushed grapes, generally leading to an alcoholic content of 15%–20%. It can range from slightly dry to very sweet, and is typically paired with dishes that have strong flavours such as game, red meat, and strong cheeses.

Red wine has a long and rich history. The earliest known evidence of wine production comes from Georgia, where wild grape vines were found growing around 9,500 BC. Ancient Egyptians are thought to have been the first to cultivate red grapes, and it is believed that they used them in religious ceremonies. 

Romans were also early adopters of red wine, and they made it a part of their everyday lives. During the Middle Ages, red wine became very popular in Europe because it was seen as a luxurious drink. In fact, during the Crusades, red wine was even considered sacred because it was believed that it could protect soldiers from harm. 

During the 19th century, red wine began to gain popularity in America. In 1825, John Jacob Astor opened the first American winery, and by 1875, there were more than 1,000 wineries in the United States. Today, Americans consume more red wine than any other type of alcohol. 

One of the most famous red wines is Chianti Classico. Originally from Florence, Italy, Chianti is now produced all over the world and is one of the most popular brands of red wine.

Types of red wines

There are many types of red wines, but each has its own unique characteristics. Here are three of the most common types: 

  • Zinfandel: This wine is made from a blend of different types of grapes, including Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is usually light in colour with a fruity taste and sharp acidity. Zinfandel is often served cold with food or used in mixed drinks. 
  • Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile wine that can be served cold or room temperature. It's typically made from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and other white grapes, such as Chardonnay or Muscadelle. The wine has a delicate flavour and low acidity, making it ideal for pairing with seafood or poultry dishes. 
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular types of red wines. It's typically made from a blend of cabernet sauvignon and other red grapes, such as Merlot.

The different types of grapes used for wine production

When it comes to wine, there are many different types of grapes used. Red wine is made primarily from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, while white wine is typically made from the Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Reds are generally more complex tasting than whites, and vary greatly in their flavour profiles based on where they're from. 

Why we drink red wine

Red wine is often associated with celebrations and special occasions. But what is the story behind this beloved drink? Red wine has a long and complex history, one that goes back to ancient times. Here are five reasons why we love red wine: 

  1. Red wine is full of antioxidants: A study from the University of California at Davis found that Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir wines had the highest levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants can help protect against heart disease, cancer, and other age-related conditions.
  2. Red wine is a source of natural energy. In addition to being packed with antioxidants, red wine also contains glucose (sugar) and energy-boosting compounds like caffeine. This makes red wine a perfect choice for energy drinks or after dinner drinks.
  3. Red wine contains healthful nutrients like fibre and vitamins A and C. Many red wines are also high in polyphenols (antioxidants), which provide health benefits such as lowering cholesterol levels and protecting against chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
  4. Red wine can improve your moods. Several studies have found that people who drink red wine are more relaxed.

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Lindeman's B45 Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
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Lindeman's B45 Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle A medium to full-bodied cabernet sauvignon. Classic dark berry and cassis characters with hints of chocolate and mint.
Lindeman's B50 Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Lindeman's B50 Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle A medium to full-bodied Shiraz with bright fruit and spice characters.
Lindeman's Bin 40 Merlot 750ML -10%
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Lindeman's Bin 40 Merlot 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle A soft and elegant, medium-bodied Merlot with delicious red berry aromas, dark red berry fruit, textural oak and silky tannins.
Lindeman's Gentleman's Collection Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Lindeman's Gentleman's Collection Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Little Giant Barossa Shiraz 2021 750ml
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Little Giant Barossa Shiraz Size: 750ml Vintage: 2021 Varietal: Shiraz APV: 13.5% Clousure: Screw Cap Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia From the Winery:   Tasting Note:  The Little Giant Shiraz continues to be the favourite in the Wombat family. The wine  displays more elegance and lift than previous vintages though the cooler Eden Valley fruit adds aromatic lift, interest, and freshness. This is a contemporary Barossa Shiraz having spent maturation time in older oak adding subtle vanilla and chocolate nuances. There’s softness on the finish while maintaining freshness and vibrancy. Pair with a classic beef and...
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Immerse yourself in the lush vibrance of the Little Giant Pinot Noir 2022, a wine that resonates with the exquisite regional character and complexity of the revered Adelaide Hills. A magnificent canvas of flavors and aromas, this Pinot Noir stands as a testament to the richness and diversity of its terroir, embodying a more robust and flavorsome interpretation of this cherished varietal. The Little Giant Pinot Noir 2022 unfolds a captivating bouquet of aromas, where vibrant strokes of strawberry and cherry are interlaced with earthy whispers, crafting an olfactory tapestry that intrigues and enchants. On the palate, it nurtures a...
Little Yering Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Little Yering Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Little Yering Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Little Yering Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Little Yering Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Little Yering Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Lock & Key Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
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Lock & Key Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :12.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Lock & Key Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Lock & Key Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.9% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Lock & Key Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Lock & Key Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Longhop Cabernet Sauvignon [4 x 750ML] -10%
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Longhop Cabernet Sauvignon ABV :14.5% Quantity : 4 Pack Country :AUSTRALIA
Longhop Old Vine Grenache [4 x 750ML] -10%
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Longhop Old Vine Grenache ABV :14.5% Quantity : 4 Pack Country :AUSTRALIA
Longhop Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Longhop Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
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Mac Forbes EB Misty Morning Nebbiolo  Size: 750ml Vintage: 2022 Varietal: Nebbiolo APV: 12% Clousure: Cork Region: Vic From the Winery:   Another stunning year for Nebbiolo in the Yarra Valley. Heady perfume and soft tannins in the fruit took Mac down a slightly different path this year, with the focus firmly on purity. Exceptionally gentle ferment management and long elevage in small neutral oak gave this fruit a chance to shine. Serve with a light chill to get the full ‘misty morning’ experience.
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Weight: 9.000 kg
The Shiraz grapes from the Central Ranges were grown biodynamically and picked in early March. After a ten-day ferment the wine was basket pressed into a mix of French and American oak hogshead barrels. Full-bodied savoury spice with dark fruit flavours and a hint of vanilla on the palate.
$3200

Minimum quantity for "Macquariedale 2021 Shiraz Central Ranges Organic" is 6.

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Weight: 8.000 kg
This Cabernet Sauvignon Sourced from the Orange Region, shows a deep purple colour, and hints of liquorice and plum on the palate. Great to compliment casseroles, beef and hearty pasta dishes.
$3500

Minimum quantity for "Macquariedale Cabernet Sauvignon Organic" is 6.

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Weight: 10.000 kg
Our certified Biodynamic hand-picked grapes were fermented using wild yeast and the whole bunch technique for optimum flavour retention. This handcrafted wine was matured in large format French oak barrels for ten months. Soft silky tannins with overtones of raspberries and mushrooms are evident. Great accompaniment with lamb, game and light summer dishes.
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Weight: 8.000 kg
These grapes were grown in 2019 using Biodynamic practices and are Certified with the ACO. The wine was fermented naturally using wild yeast living in the vineyard. The wine was basket pressed and matured in small oak barrels for 12 months. The wine exhibits a ripe berry bouquet with a hint of white pepper on the palate. A great example of vegan friendly, organic Hunter Shiraz.
$3800

Minimum quantity for "Macquariedale Limited Stock Shiraz 2020 Organic" is 6.

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This wine has been produced from our fully Certified Biodynamic grapes in 2020. We used approved Biodynamic practises which enhance the intense flavours from the low yields. Natural winemaking processes are followed by using the wild vineyard yeast for the fermentation. This creates a wine which is true to this region and allows us to minimise the use of sulphur.After 10 months maturation in small oak barrels the wine exhibits a lifted cherry and blackcurrant flavour with a well integrated smooth, silky tannic finish. Vegan friendly.
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Weight: 9.000 kg
These grapes were picked in early February 2021 using Biodynamic practices and are Certified with the ACO. The wine was fermented naturally using wild yeast living in the vineyard for nine days. The wine was basket pressed and matured in small French oak barrels for 12 months. The wine exhibits a delicate tannin structure and the cool growing season led to higher than usual natural acidity. Red fruits, white pepper and a little spice.
$3200

Minimum quantity for "Macquariedale New Release 2021 Shiraz Organic" is 6.

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Weight: 11.000 kg
"Nothing But Grapes" or as we like to call it "Naturally Bloody Good" Vintage 2021, a blend of our Hunter fruit, the always long-awaited Nothing But Grapes!  NO added preservative (sulphur 220) NO added "designer" yeasts (fermented using wild vineyard yeast) NO added yeast nutrients or settling enzymes NO added bacteria for malolactic fermentation NO fining agents used - means 'it's almost hangover free wine'. Vegan friendly.
$3000

Minimum quantity for "Macquariedale Nothing But Grapes PF Organic" is 6.

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Weight: 11.000 kg
This new Sparkling Pinot Noir produced from our own 2020 harvest is fermented in the traditional way and then bottled with a small amount of residual sweetness which then creates the bubbles in the wine. The bottle comes with a crown seal which can be easily removed and you will find a harmless residue in the bottle which is the spent yeast. This sparkling wine is a beautiful example of an old fashioned technique and the French call it PETILLANT NATUREL. It has lovely strawberry and cherry flavours and dances on the tongue. Made to be enjoyed now with friends and family and is a party in a bottle. Vegan friendly.
$3500

Minimum quantity for "Macquariedale Pet Nat Sparkling Pinot Noir Organic" is 6.

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Madfish Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Madfish Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Typical of the grape and its regional characteristics, the MadFish Pinot Noir features an aromatic perfume, silky tannins and enticing fruit flavours. The translation of Pinot Noir from French to English is pine and black. Pine refers to the pine cone shape of the grape bunch, and black to its colour. Whilst not really black, the descriptor gives some relativity to its cousins, Pinot Gris (grey/pink) and Pinot Blanc (white/yellow).
Madfish Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Madfish Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle The MadFish Shiraz shows the south-western version of the grape in classic, juicy style – fruit-forward, plush, and downright delicious! An opulent, full-bodied wine that will drink well now and will develop complex aging characters of rich earth, leather and forest floor over the next 5 years.
Mandala Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
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Mandala Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mandala Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Mandala Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Marques De Tezona Tempranillo 750ML -10%
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Marques De Tezona Tempranillo 750ML ABV :15% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Martinborough Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011 750ML -10%
Martinborough Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011 750ML
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Martinborough Vineyard Pinot Noir 2011 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :NEW ZEALAND
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Abbona Marziano Winery Dogliani, D'Alba, Barolo, Lange Italy. ​The history of the Abbona winery is full of hard work and challenges, but also loyalty to tradition and passion for experimentation. At the heart of the story are the hills of the Langhe and hard work in the vineyards, but also the territory of Dogliani and one of its most extraordinary products: Dolcetto. 1900's Papà Celso - A great story starts with a memorable beginning. That of the Abbona winery is represented by the hard, brilliant work of the first Marziano Abbona and his son Celso. Forefathers of the family and founders of the core of their business, both men...
Maxwell Minotaur Reserve Shiraz 750ML -10%
Maxwell Minotaur Reserve Shiraz 750ML
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Maxwell Minotaur Reserve Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
McGuigan Black Label Cabernet Merlot (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, spiced fruit, mint, bramble, cinnamon & vanilla Type Cabernet Merlot Style Ripe & balanced From the Winemaker Rich, generous and approachable, the McGuigan Black Label range is your contemporary guide to Australia’s most popular wine varieties. Our Black Label Cabernet Merlot is full of blackcurrant, spiced fruit, mint and bramble with rich layers of cinnamon and vanilla. A generous, mouth-filling wine, with rich spicy fruit and oak characters, soft tannins and a lingering sweet finish. The soft and velvety Merlot combined with the more powerful...
McGuigan Black Label Cabernet Merlot (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, spiced fruit, mint, bramble, cinnamon & vanilla Varietal Cabernet Merlot Style Ripe & balanced From the Winemaker This wine is a blend of cabernet sauvignon and  merlot grapes. The reason this blend works so  well is that the two varieties complement each other allowing a fuller-flavoured wine with an all round mouth feel. The soft and velvety merlot combined with the more powerful cabernet sauvignon grapes produces a luscious red wine. A highlight of this wine is the b lackcurrant, spiced fruit, mint and bramble with...
McGuigan Black Label Cabernet Merlot 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 13% abv Our Black Label Cabernet Merlot is full of blackcurrant, spiced fruit, mint and bramble with rich layers of cinnamon and vanilla. A generous, mouth-filling wine, with rich spicy fruit and oak characters, soft tannins and a lingering sweet finish. The soft and velvety Merlot combined with the more powerful Cabernet Sauvignon grapes produces a luscious red wine.
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Cherry, blackberry,  hints of cinnamon and vanilla. Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Style Rich & dark From the Winemaker Charming flavours of cherry and blackberry highlight this wine with a subtle oak influence of chocolate and vanilla. A full flavoured wine with a rich finish. An ideal partner for red meat dishes, especially succulent roast dinners.
McGuigan Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Cherry, blackberry,  hints of cinnamon and vanilla. Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Style Rich & dark From the Winemaker Charming flavours of cherry and blackberry highlight this wine with a subtle oak influence of chocolate and vanilla. A full flavoured wine with a rich finish. An ideal partner for red meat dishes, especially succulent roast dinners.
McGuigan Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 12.5% abv Our Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits aromas of lifted spiced fruit, plum, and blueberry with layers of chocolate and sweet spice. Soft and elegant with spiced fruit characters, generous weight, and good length of flavour with a sweet oak finish
McGuigan Black Label Chardonnay Pinot Noir Cuvée Brut (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate White peach, red & green apple, creamy Type Chardonnay Pinot Noir Style Refreshing & elegant From the Winemaker Rich, generous and approachable, the McGuigan Black Label range is your contemporary guide to Australia’s most popular wine varieties. It is a refreshing and elegant sparkling wine exhibiting delicate aromas of fresh white peach and red apple. The palate highlights generous fruit flavours of crisp pear and green apple followed by a lingering, creamy finish. This wine is elegant with a fine bead and a well-integrated acid backbone. Whether it be a...
McGuigan Black Label Chardonnay Pinot Noir Cuvée Brut (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate White peach, red & green apple, creamy Varietal Chardonnay Pinot Noir Style Delicate & elegant From the Winemaker A refreshing and elegant sparkling wine exhibiting delicate aromas of fresh white peach and red apple. The palate highlights generous fruit flavours of crisp pear and green apple followed by a lingering, creamy finish. This wine is elegant with a fine bead and a well integrated acid backbone. A delightful, refreshing aperitif, also a great accompaniment to a range of appetisers, fresh light seafood dishes, salads and fresh...
McGuigan Black Label Malbec (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Black cherry, cocoa spice, rich tannin Type Malbec Style Rich & intense From the Winemaker Rich, generous and approachable, the McGuigan Black Label range is your contemporary guide to Australia’s most popular wine varieties. Our Black Label Malbec is an elegant and soft wine, with spiced fruit characters, generous weight and good length of flavor. Deep cherry red in colour, layers of chocolate, plum and blueberries combine producing a lingering sweet finish. Whether it be a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, a full-bodied Chardonnay or Australia’s #1 selling bottled...
McGuigan Black Label Malbec 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 12.5% abv Our Black Label Malbec is an elegant and soft wine, with spiced fruit characters, generous weight and good length of flavor. Deep cherry red in colour, layers of chocolate, plum and blueberries combine producing a lingering sweet finish.
McGuigan Black Label Merlot (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Jammy, red fruit, cinnamon & vanilla Type Merlot Style Soft & velvety From the Winemaker Rich, generous and approachable, the McGuigan Black Label range is your contemporary guide to Australia’s most popular wine varieties. Our Black Label Merlot is displays delicate aromas of spiced fruit, plum, and blueberry with layers of chocolate and sweet spice. Soft and elegant with spiced fruit characters, generous weight, and good length of flavour with a sweet oak finish. Whether it be a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, a full-bodied Chardonnay or Australia’s #1...
McGuigan Black Label Merlot 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 12%% abv Our Black Label Merlot is displays delicate aromas of spiced fruit, plum, and blueberry with layers of chocolate and sweet spice. Soft and elegant with spiced fruit characters, generous weight, and good length of flavour with a sweet oak finish.
McGuigan Black Label Red 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 12.5% abv Deep cherry red in color, the McGuigan Black Label Red delivers intense aromas of cherry and blackcurrant with notes of spicy oak. The palate is smooth and displays sweet ripe berries and cherries, with good length and complexity.
McGuigan Black Label Red Blend (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcherry, cherry, plum & spice Type Red Blend Style Smooth & approachable From the Winemaker The first thing you notice about this wine is the  lovely berry and spice aromas. Following this are the wonderful flavours of spicy plum, cherry and  blackberry that flow through the mouth, resulting  in an approachable fruit-driven wine with a smooth and mouth-filling finish. It is nicely balanced with great fruit characters and a persistence of flavour. Our famous Black Label Red is a very versatile wine that is especially rewarding with...
McGuigan Black Label Red Blend (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcherry, cherry, plum & spice Varietal Red Blend Style Smooth & approachable From the Winemaker The first thing you notice about this wine is the  lovely berry and spice aromas. Following this is  the wonderful flavours of spicy plum, cherry and  blackberry that flow through the mouth, resulting  in an approachable fruit-driven wine with a smooth and mouth-filling finish. It is nicely balanced with great fruit characters and a persistence of flavour. Our famous Black Label Red is a very versatile wine that is especially rewarding...
McGuigan Black Label Shiraz (750mL) -20%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Jammy red fruit, long soft tannin Varietal Shiraz Style Smooth & vibrant From the Winemaker A smooth and vibrant Shiraz exhibiting rich aromas of red berries, chocolate, savoury leather and spicy oak notes. The full-rounded palate displays generous red berry fruit flavours, soft tannins and a long-lasting finish. Pairs well with a range of dishes including tomato-based pasta dishes or rich red meat dishes.