The Black Stump Reserve Shiraz 2012

Australia is renowned for sumptuous Shiraz, with the likes of Penfolds Grange and Henschke Hill of Grace fetching in excess of £100 a bottle. Black Stump Reserve too is a showcase red, yet priced within reach of us all. Winemaker Alan Kennett knows how to impress ' his 'everyday' Black Stump once won a Trophy Prestige in Bordeaux of all places. So with the benchmark set he applied his skills to quality Shiraz from the Clare Valley, a small, hilly region 40 miles north of the Barossa ' 'home to distinctively rich and fruity Shirazes' (The Independent). With American oak maturation the wine's rich blackberry fruit has taken on seductive overtones of mocha and vanilla. Full and smooth, it makes a fine fireside companion or red meat partner.