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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Penfolds Bin 8 Shiraz Cabernet Space Gift Tin 2019 750mL -10%
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750mL @ 14.5% abv Since the beginning, Penfolds has been looking to the stars. Dreaming of what could be beyond. Their new limited edition rocket tin celebrates this pioneering spirit of going beyond, rather than accepting the status quo. Give No Ordinary Gift.
St Hugo 2016 Barossa Grenache Shiraz Mataro 750mL -10%
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750mL @ 14.4% abv | Individually Numbered Bottles The winemakers at St Hugo have selected the premier examples of their low yielding Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro vines to make this full bodied, and delightfully plush wine. The nose is beautifully aromatic, floral notes are nicely balanced by rich Turkish delight. On the palate, ripe fruit notes and subtle oak are beautifully hung of rich and fine tannin. Raspberry and blackberry are balanced perfectly with earthier and oaken notes, ending with gentle notes of raisins and almonds. This is a dangerously easy wine to drink, and perfectly highlights the capability of the Barossa Valley to...
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Hickinbotham Brooks Road 750ml Vintage: 2019 Varietal: Shiraz APV: 14.5% Clousure: Screw Cap Region: McLaren Vale, SA From the Winery:   Named for the street on which the vineyard is located, Brooks Road Shiraz exhibits the compelling single site character of the vineyard. It marries red, blue and black fruit aromas with perfumed and savoury elements and captures the full flavour of Shiraz with deeply ripe plum and blackberry fruits. The powerful and defined tannins are balanced with even-paced acid structure which accentuates length of flavour and delivers a sense of sustained purity on the palate. 95 NED...
Taylors St Andrews Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
Taylors St Andrews Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML
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Taylors St Andrews Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Bodegas Alamos Malbec [4 x 750ML] -10%
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Bodegas Alamos Malbec ABV :13.5% Quantity : 4 Pack Country :ARGENTINA Alamos Malbec captures the spirit and terroir of Argentina’s signature variety. Grown at high-level altitudes, Malbec offers layers of dark cherry and blackberry with a velvety mouthfeel. This complex red wine pairs beautifully with a wide range of cuisine and is recognized for its pronounced fresh style.
Wynns Messenger Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
Wynns Messenger Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML
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Wynns Messenger Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Apsley Gorge Size: 750ml Vintage: 2021 Varietal: Pinot Noir  APV: 14.5% Clousure: Screw Cap Region: Bicheno, Tas From the Winery:   It is amazing when you look at a glass of Apsley Gorge pinot: translucent, ethereal. It is hard to imagine the power and concentration of the nose and the palate from such a delicate looking wine.  NOSE: Straight away there is the complexity. How can this come from grapes? All of the elements are there, but they are difficult to isolate. Forest floor and that natural yeast funkiness. They all combine to give you this complex smell sensation, and then the fruit comes to the fore....
Taylors St. Andrews Cabernet Sauvignon (750mL) -4%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, cassis, cedar, & tobacco Type Cabernet Sauvignon Style Complex & elegant From the Winemaker On the palate, it is a very well-balanced wine with ripe blackcurrant characters intermingling harmoniously with oak characters of cedar and subtle tobacco. There is a contradiction on the palate with power and strength in the varietal flavours of cassis and yet also supreme delicacy in the fine-boned structure. The tasting experience is completed with long, fine tannins and a wonderful persistent presence on the finish.
Chateauneuf La Bernadine 750ml
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Taylors St Andrews Shiraz 2020 (750mL) -5%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Black cherry, plum, ripe berries, & American oak Type Shiraz Style Rich fruit characters From the Winemaker This is a voluptuous wine with great mid-palate expression, layers of flavour and yet great balance. Fresh red berry fruits are cradled across the palate by mocha and vanilla spice flavours from high-quality oak. The barrel fermentation results in a wine that has well-integrated fruit and oak and harmonious, elegant flavours and a long persistent finish.
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Woodlawn Park Waverly Vineyard Chardonnay  Vintage: 2021 Region: Waverly Vineyard, Northern Tas Closure: Cork Varietals: Chardonnay Notes: Waverley is situated just to the east of Launceston, with a little bit of elevation, it is more influenced by the surrounding mountains, rather than the Tamar River. This vineyard was planted in 2005, and we have farmed out ourselves since 2015.  At the time, the owner had stepped away, and the vineyard was derelict.  Naively, I went and knocked on the door of the owner, convincing him to let me take it on. Five years later I was still sorting it out, and producing very light crops, but...
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Embark on a journey to Tasmania with the 2022 Sailor Seeks Horse Pinot Noir, a testament to the island's extraordinary winemaking potential. This Pinot Noir stands as a beacon of craftsmanship, offering a layered and captivating taste experience that reflects the unique terroir of its origin. Ideal for aficionados seeking a standout Australian Pinot Noir. Discover the elegance of Tasmanian winemaking with the 2022 Sailor Seeks Horse Pinot Noir - a rich, complex wine that beautifully encapsulates its cool climate heritage. Key Features Hop Vine & Still Tasting Panel Score : 95/100 Region : Tasmania, Australia Vintage...
Jim Barry First Eleven Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
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Jim Barry First Eleven Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Yabby Lake Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
Yabby Lake Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ML
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Yabby Lake Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Houghton Thomas Yule Shiraz 750ML -10%
Houghton Thomas Yule Shiraz 750ML
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Houghton Thomas Yule Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Glaetzer Anaperenna Shiraz Cabernet 750ML -10%
Glaetzer Anaperenna Shiraz Cabernet 750ML
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Glaetzer Anaperenna Shiraz Cabernet 750ML ABV :15.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Merlot 750ML -10%
Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Merlot 750ML
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Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Merlot 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Tahblik Esp Shiraz 2017 750ML -10%
Tahblik Esp Shiraz 2017 750ML
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Tahblik Esp Shiraz 2010 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Exceptional Craftsmanship: Dalrymple Swansea Pinot Noir (Single Site) 2021 Introducing the Dalrymple Swansea Pinot Noir (Single Site) 2021—a true testament to the art and science of winemaking. Crafted from the abundant harvest of 2021 at a single vineyard site, this Pinot Noir embodies the essence of the Swansea region and Dalrymple's commitment to excellence. Key Features: Single Site Excellence: The Dalrymple Swansea Pinot Noir is an expression of a single site within the Swansea region, allowing the distinct terroir and unique characteristics of this specific vineyard to shine through. 2021 Harvest: Made from...
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Elevate Your Palate: Dalrymple Pipers River (Single Site) Pinot Noir 2021 Experience the epitome of Tasmanian winemaking with Dalrymple Pipers River (Single Site) Pinot Noir 2021—a wine that captures the essence of a specific vineyard site within the esteemed Pipers River region. Carefully crafted from the exceptional 2021 harvest, this Pinot Noir is a true expression of the region's unique terroir. Key Features: Single Site Excellence: Dalrymple Pipers River Pinot Noir is a tribute to the mastery of single-site winemaking, showcasing the distinct characteristics of a specific vineyard within the Pipers River region....
Ch Poujeaux Moulis 750ml
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Weight: 1.300 kg
19 Crimes Mixed Red Pack (6 x 750mL) -36%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate A range of delicious reds Varietal Mixed Red Pack Style Something for everyone Our Notes The perfect lineup for some hard time, this 19 Crimes mixed bundle of red wines includes a bottle each of: 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon 19 Crimes Malbec 19 Crimes Shiraz 19 Crimes Sangiovese  19 Crimes Tempranillo  19 Crimes Red Blend 6 fantastic 19 Crimes reds - that's 114 crimes! From the Winemaker Nineteen Crimes turned criminals into colonists. Upon conviction, British rogues, guilty of at least one of the 19 Crimes, were sentenced to live in...
$7245 $11334
Jacob's Creek Biodynamic Shiraz (750mL) -8%
Jacob's Creek Biodynamic Shiraz (750mL)
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Blueberry, liquorice, vanilla & cinnamon Varietal Shiraz Style Biodynamic Winemakers Comments A complex Shiraz with great cellaring potential that is a perfect showcase of premium fruit and modern biodynamic winemaking. A heady mix of blueberry, and liquorice with vanilla, cinnamon and cedar notes. Soft dark berry and plum flavours are complemented by star anise, oak complexity and supple tannins.
Stonier Reserve Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Stonier Reserve Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mount Langi Ghiran Talus Shiraz 2018 750ML -10%
Mount Langi Ghiran Talus Shiraz 2018 750ML
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Mount Langi Ghiran Talus Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Yalumba Signature Cabernet Shiraz 750ML -10%
Yalumba Signature Cabernet Shiraz 750ML
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Yalumba Signature Cabernet Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Penfolds Bin 128 Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Penfolds Bin 128 Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Balgownie Centre Block Shiraz 2017 750ML -10%
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Balgownie Centre Block Shiraz 2017 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Gala Estate Black Label Estate Pinot Noir Size: 750ml Vintage: 2018 Varietal: Pinot Noir APV: 13.5% Clousure: Screw Cap Region: East Coast, Tas From the Winery:    
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Gala Estate 'Emerald'  Size: 750ml Vintage: 2021 Varietal: Shiraz APV: 14.0% Clousure: Screw Cap Region: East Coast, Tas From the Winery:   This incredible example of cool climate Shiraz wine recently took out Best Tasmanian Shiraz & The Douglas Seabrook Trophy for Best Single Vineyard Wine at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards. Say no more! Only 10 barrels were made and it is selling out everywhere.
Peel Estate Old Vine Shiraz 750ML -10%
Peel Estate Old Vine Shiraz 750ML
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Peel Estate Old Vine Shiraz 750ML ABV :15% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Bay Of Stones Shiraz (Case of 6 ) 750mL -15%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Sweet berry, spicy edge, vanilla/cinnamon oak Varietal Shiraz Style Classic Australian style shiraz    A classic Australian Shiraz style, Bay of Stones Shiraz demonstrates the benefits of careful fruit selection combined with traditional winemaking techniques. Bursting with fruit and stylish oak, this wine may be enjoyed now, although we suggest you put some away in a quiet place for a few years and enjoy the additional complexities which can be achieved by careful cellaring. The palate is rich and flavoursome, showing intense, sweet berry fruit flavours with a...
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Discover the award-winning Teusner Albert Shiraz 2021, a stellar example of Barossa Valley's winemaking prowess. This Shiraz boasts an impressive 99-point score, reflecting its exceptional quality and complex flavor profile. Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a memorable wine experience. Meta Description Experience the excellence of Teusner Albert Shiraz 2021 with a 99-point score. A masterpiece from the Barossa Valley, showcasing ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, and subtle oak. Key Features Region: Barossa Valley, Australia Vintage: 2021 Score: 99 Points - James Haliday Hop Vine & Still...
Geoff Merrill Reserve Shiraz 750ML -10%
Geoff Merrill Reserve Shiraz 750ML
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Geoff Merrill Reserve Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Henschke Johann's Garden Grenache 750ML -10%
Henschke Johann's Garden Grenache 750ML
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Henschke Johann's Garden Grenache 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Noir 750 ML -10%
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Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Noir 750 ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :NEW ZEALAND
Gibson Reserve Shiraz 2020 750ml
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Gibson Reserve Shiraz 2020: A Symphony of Finesse and Structure from the Barossa Valley Dive deep into the luxurious embrace of the Gibson Reserve Shiraz 2020, a wine that encapsulates the meticulous artistry and profound richness of the Barossa Valley’s bountiful terroir. This majestic Reserve Shiraz unfurls a kaleidoscope of complexities, born from up to 30 individual Shiraz parcel components, each contributing unique notes of finesse and structure, the heralds of a wine’s ability to age with grace. Crafted with an unwavering attention to detail, the Gibson Reserve Shiraz embarks on a journey through one and two-tonne...
Jim Barry The McRae Wood Shiraz 2019 750ml
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Weight: 1.300 kg
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Deep Valley Clay Terroir Size: 750ml Vintage: 2022 Varietal: Pinot Noir APV: 13.5% Clousure: Cork Region: Derwent Valley, Tas Ceritifed Organic From the Winery:   Deep Valley, a new collaboration between Father and Son team Steve, of Stefano Lubiana Wines and Marco Lubiana. A balance of Steve Lubiana’s classically graceful wine making style and Marco’s youthful intuitiveness has resulted in a new joint label for the talented duo. Developed to produce small batch wines from Steve's biodynamic vineyards located in the Derwent and Huon Valleys, these limited production, unusual and alternative wines are pure...
Wirra Wirra Rsw Shiraz 750ML -10%
Wirra Wirra Rsw Shiraz 750ML
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Wirra Wirra Rsw Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Wirra Wirra Angelus Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
Wirra Wirra Angelus Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML
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Wirra Wirra Angelus Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir (750mL) -9%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Cherry, boysenberry, soft earth Varietal Pinot Noir Style Supple & subtle   Our Notes Pinot Noir and New Zealand are great phrases to see together. This one's supple, earthy and bright, a food-friendly wine if we've ever seen one. From the Winemaker Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir is the perfect wine to take when you don’t know what’s for dinner. Versatile and food-friendly, it has a signature silky elegance. A benchmark Marlborough wine, Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir is proof that Marlborough’s climate and clay soils make it much more than a one-grape region.
Penfolds 2019 Bin 128 Coonawarra Shiraz (750mL) -5%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Juicy blackcurrant, mulberry, woodsmoke Varietal Shiraz Style Creamy & classic Our Notes One of Penfolds' first regionally-specific wines, taken entirely from the famed terra rossa soils of Coonawarra. From The Winemaker With each vintage release the cool-climate Bin 128 Coonawarra Shiraz provides an interesting counterpoint to the more opulent and richly concentrated warm climate Bin 28 Shiraz.   Bin 128 comprises fruit sourced from the unique terra rossa soils of Coonawarra, a region that exemplifies the perfume, transparency and...
Taylors St Andrews Shiraz 750ML -10%
Taylors St Andrews Shiraz 750ML
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Taylors St Andrews Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Taylors St. Andrews Shiraz 750mL -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv The wine has concentrated layers of violets, liquorice, chocolate, cinnamon, coffee, mocha and creamy vanillin aromas. Very rich and reminiscent of liquor cherries in rum & raisin ice cream.The wine is rich and complex with layers of flavour and a creamy, mouth filling texture. Dark berry fruits combine with mocha and vanilla spice flavours from high quality oak. The fruit and oak weight create a multidimensional palate balanced by good zesty acidity bringing freshness and great length of flavour. This is a very elegant wine with textural complexity and long, persistent flavours.All of the fruit for this wine was...
Taylors St. Andrews Cabernet Sauvignon 750mL -10%
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750mL @ 14.5% abv The wine has an enticing, lifted aroma of ripe blackcurrants, choc mint, subtle spice and a hint of dried tomato leaf. The overall nose character is one of richness and elegance.On the palate it is a very well-balanced wine with ripe blackcurrant characters, along with chocolate and mint intermingling harmoniously with oak characters of cedar and subtle tobacco. There is an understated power to the wine, with layers of complexity building across the palate and then finishing elegantly with long, fine tannins. It is a generous wine yet retains poise and the elegance of great Cabernet Sauvignon.The wine had a period of...
Taylors St. Andrews Shiraz 750mL -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv The wine has concentrated layers of violets, liquorice, chocolate, cinnamon, coffee, mocha and creamy vanillin aromas. Very rich and reminiscent of liquor cherries in rum & raisin ice cream.The wine is rich and complex with layers of flavour and a creamy, mouth filling texture. Dark berry fruits combine with mocha and vanilla spice flavours from high quality oak. The fruit and oak weight create a multidimensional palate balanced by good zesty acidity bringing freshness and great length of flavour. This is a very elegant wine with textural complexity and long, persistent flavours.All of the fruit for this wine was...
Taylors St. Andrews Cabernet Sauvignon 750mL -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv The wine has an enticing, lifted aroma of ripe blackcurrants, choc mint, subtle spice and a hint of dried tomato leaf. The overall nose character is one of richness and elegance.On the palate it is a very well-balanced wine with ripe blackcurrant characters, along with chocolate and mint intermingling harmoniously with oak characters of cedar and subtle tobacco. There is an understated power to the wine, with layers of complexity building across the palate and then finishing elegantly with long, fine tannins. It is a generous wine yet retains poise and the elegance of great Cabernet Sauvignon.The wine had a period of...