Coriole 2022 Lloyd Reserve Shiraz

What a striking wine this is, full of intensity, complexity and potential. Using fruit from some of the oldest vines in McLaren Vale - over 100 years old - this is named in honour of Hugh Lloyd, who founded Coriole in 1967. It is a wine that would grace any dinner party, or a special occasion paired with rich, red meat dishes. There is a lot happening on the palate, but it all coalesces beautifully; dark fruit, impressive oak, spice notes, depth, length and lovely tannin structure. You can enjoy this now, but my gut suggests cellaring will pay dividends. It is big and assertive right now; a heavyweight that will develop into a slick middleweight. $120. coriole.com

Mr Riggs 2024 The Magnet Grenache

Grenache, a grape that was once reviled, is having its moment in the sun - and this delightful example from McLaren Vale stalwart Ben Riggs demonstrates its immediate appeal. Many grenache vines were pulled out or bulldozed due to oversupply in the 1980s, but now fruit from surviving older vines is very much in demand. This is a bright and immediately enjoyable grenache that was made made from fruit from 100-year-old dry grown vines at Dogridge Vineyard. The old vines are low yielding, but each bunch provides concentrated flavours. Pair with steak, lamb dishes or hard cheeses to best enjoy the plummy, spicy palate. $30. https://mrriggs.com.au/