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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Wynns Black Label Shiraz (Old Wines 2019) 750mL -10%
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750mL @ 14% abv Pristine berry fruits dominate the nose. Initially, the reds fruits are apparent - cranberries and redcurrants but then there is darker fruit more blackcurrant.A classic medium-bodied Shiraz palate. Crunchy dark berries with black pepper and some sweeter cinnamon notes. The 2019 has a lovely texture - fine tannin with lively acidity.
Wynns Black Label Shiraz (Old Wines 2019) 750mL -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14% abv Pristine berry fruits dominate the nose. Initially, the reds fruits are apparent - cranberries and redcurrants but then there is darker fruit more blackcurrant.A classic medium-bodied Shiraz palate. Crunchy dark berries with black pepper and some sweeter cinnamon notes. The 2019 has a lovely texture - fine tannin with lively acidity.
Penfolds Venture Beyond Bin 28 Shiraz 2021 Deep Sea Gift Box -10%
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750mL @ 14.5% abv Discover Bin 28 in the newest Venture Beyond frontier – the deep sea. Our deep-sea world was brought to life by Australian Artist, Mikaela Stafford. Much like deep-sea explorers, our limited edition gift boxes embody the essence of adventure and curiosity. Join us in venturing where others wouldn’t dare with no ordinary gift. Bin 28 offers a showcase of warm climate Australian shiraz – ripe, robust and generously flavoured. First made in 1959, Bin 28 was originally named after the famous Barossa Valley Kalimna vineyard purchased by Penfolds in 1945 and from which the wine was originally sourced. Today, Bin 28 is a...
Penfolds Venture Beyond Bin 28 Shiraz 2021 Deep Sea Gift Box -10%
In stock
750mL @ 14.5% abv Discover Bin 28 in the newest Venture Beyond frontier – the deep sea. Our deep-sea world was brought to life by Australian Artist, Mikaela Stafford. Much like deep-sea explorers, our limited edition gift boxes embody the essence of adventure and curiosity. Join us in venturing where others wouldn’t dare with no ordinary gift. Bin 28 offers a showcase of warm climate Australian shiraz – ripe, robust and generously flavoured. First made in 1959, Bin 28 was originally named after the famous Barossa Valley Kalimna vineyard purchased by Penfolds in 1945 and from which the wine was originally sourced. Today, Bin 28 is a...
McGuigan Black Label Shiraz (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 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.
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...
3 Bottle Red Wine Mystery Box -25%
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Unleash your inner sommelier with the Mystery 3 Bottle Red Wine Pack from Secret Bottle. Perfect for wine lovers and curious connoisseurs alike, this carefully curated collection of red wines will take your taste buds on a journey of discovery. From rich, full-bodied reds to elegant and nuanced, each bottle has been hand-selected by our experts to offer you a diverse and dynamic selection of wines. Whether you're looking to expand your wine knowledge, try new varieties, or just seek a delicious tipple, our Mystery 3 Bottle Red Wine Pack is the perfect choice. At Secret Bottle, we believe that wine is more than just a drink, it's a...
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 Tempranillo (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Fruit-forward, raspberry, umami Varietal Tempranillo Style Refreshing & vibrant From the Winemaker The five o'clock wine…Rich, generous and accessible, the Black Label range is your everyday guide to Australia's favourite wine varieties. Bright and vibrant, lifted cherry and plum aromas combine with rich raspberry and black cherry flavours. The palate is well-balanced with upfront berry fruits and tight tannins leading to a savoury finish. An easy-drinking style, this wine is perfectly matched with food, including a hearty paella or lamb shanks....
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...
Notion 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon (750mL) Case of 6 -57%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Juicy blackberry, herbaceous, structured tannin Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Style Rich, complex and full-bodied Our Notes This is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon that goes perfectly with your favourite pizza or a rich tomato-based pasta. The wine is ready for drinking now and with a few years under its belt be sure to give it a little time to open up after decanting. From The Winemaker The 2017 vintage produced grapes of optimum ripeness, resulting in a rich, complex, and full-bodied wine. Dark crimson in colour and a long palate displaying intense...
$6195 $14490
McGuigan Black Label Sparkling Shiraz (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, plum, cocoa, fine bead Type Sparkling Shiraz Style Sweet & refreshing From the Winemaker Sparkling Shiraz is a very versatile wine which can be served chilled as a starter or used to match with a wide range of foods for any celebration. Delightful dark berry fruit flavours of blackcurrant and plum highlight this sparkling wine. A touch of spicy oak and chocolate adds extra depth while fine beads deliver a refreshing finish and give the wine excellent length. Shiraz wine from various specially selected vintages was combined to form the ideal base for...
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...
In stock
Weight: 1.300 kg
Rolf Binder Heyson Shiraz 750ML -10%
Rolf Binder Heyson Shiraz 750ML
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Rolf Binder Heyson Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
The Rule Shiraz 2015 750ML -10%
The Rule Shiraz 2015 750ML
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The Rule Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Penfolds Bin 128 Shiraz 17 750ML -10%
Penfolds Bin 128 Shiraz 17 750ML
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Penfolds Bin 128 Shiraz 17 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Jim Barry The Mc Rae Wood Shiraz 750ML -10%
Jim Barry The Mc Rae Wood Shiraz 750ML
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Jim Barry The Mc Rae Wood Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Kilikanoon Covenant Shiraz 750ML -10%
Kilikanoon Covenant Shiraz 750ML
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Kilikanoon Covenant Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
In stock
Weight: 1.300 kg
Alkina Birdsong Shiraz 2021 750ml
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Pramie Shiraz 2013 750ML -10%
Pramie Shiraz 2013 750ML
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Pramie Shiraz 2013 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Di Giovanna Helios Grillo 2019 -8%
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Grillo DOC Sicilia Denomination DOC Sicily Grapes Grillo 100% Production 6,000 bottles Vineyards Paradiso in Contessa Entellina, organically grown Altitude 1,400 feet Soil Limestone and calcareous Vinification Soft pressed for 8 hours, fermentation in stainless steel Aging 10% in French tonneaux, 90% for 9 months on the fine lees in stainless steel Production philosophy Certified Organic, Vegan Friendly Tasting note: A rich and soft palate with a beautiful acidic core notes of pineapple and papaya gently linger. ABV 13.5% - 750ml
$5900 $6400

Minimum quantity for "Di Giovanna Helios Grillo 2019" is 6.

Di Giovanna Helios Nero d'Avola 2019 -8%
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2019 Helios Nero d'Avola 'The Flagship' IGP Denomination IGP Terre Siciliane Variety Nero d’Avola 70%, 30% Syrah Production 6,000 bottles Vineyards 30-year-old vines in the Contessa Entellina area, on soil rich in mixed clay and volcanic tuff. Altitude 1,400 feet Soil Mixed Clay and volcanic Tuff Vinification Hand-harvested, destemmed grapes, open-top barrel fermentation, soft pressing. Aging 12 months in barrique and tonneau Tasting note: Decisive and robust, harmonious, with velvety tannins and a pleasant softness on the finish. ABV 14% - 750ml Di Giovanna Winery...
$5900 $6400

Minimum quantity for "Di Giovanna Helios Nero d'Avola 2019" is 6.

Geoff Merrill Shiraz 750ML -10%
Geoff Merrill Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Geoff Merrill Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Teusner & Page Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
Teusner & Page Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML
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Teusner & Page Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Teusner 'Big Jim' Shiraz 750ML -10%
Teusner 'Big Jim' Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Teusner 'Big Jim' Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
In stock
Weight: 1.300 kg
Tomfoolery Black & Blue Size: 750ml Vintage: 2020 Varietal: Shiraz APV: 15% Clousure: Cork Region: Barossa Valley, SA From the Winery:   It’s a hard knock life for the underdog, but don’t start bowing your tiny violins just yet. As the vintages roll on, the artisan winemaker gloves up for the proverbial David vs. Goliath, often waking bruised and battered championing scars that would make any prizefighter cringe. But with the willpower to reach the twelfth round of a barnburner comes the drive not just to survive, but go the distance as we won’t be the ones kissing the canvas. Inspired by our Barossan...
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I love Monsters 'La Vergine'  Vintage: 2019 Varietal: Verdicchio APV: 14% Clousure: Cork Region: Le Marchee, Italy  From the Winery:  Skin-contact orange wine sur lie, natural, organic, unfiltered A slightly macerated Verdicchio whose must gently stays in contact with the skins during fermentation. On the nose it presents nice aromas of exotic fruits and in the mouth is tasty and smooth. Perfect with raw fish or delicate dishes of white meat.  
Taylors Masterstroke Shiraz (750mL) -10%
In stock
Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Plum, dark cherry fruit, vanilla, & oak Type Shiraz Style Rich & bold From the Winemaker The wine has a mouth-filling lusciousness, densely packed with generous plum and dark cherry fruit flavours along with subtle floral violet characters and a smack of vanilla underlying the opulent oak expression.
Taylors Masterstroke Cabernet Shiraz (750mL) -10%
In stock
Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Dark plum, blackcurrant, dark chocolate, & mint Type Cabernet Shiraz Style Rich & complex From the Winemaker The wine displays a sublimely supple texture with fine tannins melding together for a mouth-filling completeness. Shiraz delivers rich and plump dark plum to the mid-palate whilst blackcurrant, dark chocolate and mint characters from the Cabernet Sauvignon drive the long and memorable finish. A complex, layered wine showing excellent evolution at release. (Cabernet Sauvignon 65% / Shiraz 35%).
Taylors Masterstroke Cabernet Sauvignon (750mL) -10%
In stock
Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, mint, & dark chocolate Type Cabernet Sauvignon Style Rich & persistent From the Winemaker At release, the wine is a dark ruby red with a bright red hue. The wine displays a distinctive regional expression of choc-mint along with cool climate aromas of violets, spice and cedar tobacco notes from French oak maturation. On a palate, it has deliciously haunting flavours of blackcurrant, mint and dark chocolate persist around a finely tuned tannin structure and a thoroughly enjoyable long and persistent finish.
Brown Bros Patricia Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
Brown Bros Patricia Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML
In stock
Brown Bros Patricia Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Springvale Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
Springvale Pinot Noir 750ML
In stock
Springvale Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.6% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Brown Bros Patricia Shiraz 750ML -10%
Brown Bros Patricia Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Brown Bros Patricia Shiraz 750ML ABV :15% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Penfolds Bin 138 Grenache Shiraz Mourverde 750ML -10%
In stock
Penfolds Bin 138 Grenache Shiraz Mourverde 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 750ML
In stock
Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :NEW ZEALAND
Geoff Merrill Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
In stock
Geoff Merrill Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Five Geese Sue's Paddock Reserve Grenache 2013 -10%
A lovely food wine that has the ability to drink well with richer foods. 100% old vine Grenache. 9 months second use American oak. Vintage -  2013 Soil type -  Sand over clay and ironstone Vine Age - 56 Clone -  Bush vines Pruning -  Hand pruned Location -  Blewitt Springs (McLaren Vale) Variety -  100% Grenache Region -  McLaren Vale, 100%. Winemaker -  Mike Farmilo Viticulturists -  Sue Trott & Jonathon Trott James Halliday Review 94 Remarkably pretty, well-structured, seductive grenache. Fruit is the hero here. Warm ripe raspberry,...
$4950 $5500
Five Geese Jon’s Block Reserve Shiraz 2015 -10%
Soft, rich, flavoursome palate with lovely spice and pepper complexity lingering. Long and intense palate, elegant oak and fine tannins. Colour Very attractive crimson black colour. Dense Aroma Very lifted and perfumed, spicy, almost nutty fruit/ oak complexity. A touch of that peaty character which is so typical of the old vines in Block 9. Palate Soft, rich, flavoursome palate with lovely spice and pepper complexity lingering. Not sweet, more savoury and...
$4950 $5500
Five Geese Jen’s Block Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 -10%
Enjoy the herbaceous, capsicum flavours at the front palate. Blackberry and satsuma plum characters are supported by firm tannins leading to a lingering finish. Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon Region: McLaren Flat Vine Age: 29 years Wine making and tasting notes 16 months in predominately French oak hogsheads, 40% new. polished fashion, long and plush. Colour Deep red/ purple hues Aroma Blackberry and blackcurrant evident at first and followed by satsuma plum characters....
$4950 $5500
Chateau les Vimieres Haut-Médoc 2017 -8%
In stock
Just 3 km north of Château Margaux and to the east of Paveilde Luze, stands a hidden 0.45-hectare parcel of 70-year-old Merlot vines. They have been in the Boissenot family for longer than anybody can remember and they make 1200 bottles of this confidential wine. When Eric Boissenot is not helping Latour or Lafite towards achieving perfection, he is working his magic on his 4500 vines. While he will tell you that 90% of the quality of the wine is made while the grapes are on the vines, his unique techniques of winemaking contribute massively. You will never taste an over-extracted wine from Eric Boissenot. His cellar is a mix of...
$5500 $5995

Minimum quantity for "Chateau les Vimieres Haut-Médoc 2017" is 6.

Seppelt Mount Ida Shiraz 750ML -10%
Seppelt Mount Ida Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Seppelt Mount Ida Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Reynell Basket Pressed Shiraz 750ML -10%
Reynell Basket Pressed Shiraz 750ML
In stock
Reynell Basket Pressed Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 750ML
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Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :NEW ZEALAND
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Glen Garvald by Levantine Hill Ornelias  Size: 750ml Vintage: 2020 Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon , Sangiovese  ABV: 13.5% Clousure: Screw Cap Region: Yarra Valley, VIC From the Winery:   Conceived as our homage to the pioneering game-changing ‘Super Tuscan’ Vino da Tavola blends of Firenze (specifically Marchesi Antinori’s ‘Solaia’ from their Tenuta Tignanello) and Bolgheri in western central Italy. This blend of intensely-fruited traditional Bordelaise grape varieties and the earthy asperity of Sangiovese takes strengths from each of its requisite components to make a wine of regal rusticity that treads a path a little...
In stock
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.
Petaluma Shiraz 750ML -10%
Petaluma Shiraz 750ML
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Petaluma Shiraz 750ML ABV :15% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Henschke Keyneton Estate 750ML -10%
Henschke Keyneton Estate 750ML
In stock
Henschke Keyneton Estate 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA