Made by Rockstar winemaker Ben Riggs, the McLaren Vale Shiraz is as true an expression as one could hope for. The fifth release of the wine is based around a core of pristine fruit with dark red berries, hints of spice, earth, tar and leather and with seamlessly integrated oak. Ripe tannins are apparent but not overwhelming, meaning this is a wine which can be enjoyed now or in the next 10-15 years.

The EJ Shiraz is the jewel in Paxton's organic and biodynamic crown. Awarded 95 points in the Halliday Wine Companion 2017, this wine is the result of low yielding vines that are more than a century old. The flavour is elegant and round and the nose offers vanilla, black current and oak.

Shottesbrooke Merlot from the well drained McLaren Vale is a wonderfully full flavoured, deep and vibrant red wine. Medium body, typical of the variety, combined with fine tannins and a smooth finish, this makes an ideal food accompaniment for poultry and Italian dishes.

Wirra Wirra's flagship Shiraz has won many accolades over the years, including the 'world's best Shiraz'. It's loaded with distinctive McLaren Vale blueberry and chocolate characters, supported by plums, violets and spice, and tannin structure destined for 10 more years in the cellar.

The Black Chook is another fantastic 'big fruit' style from Ben Riggs. The nose is complex with aromas of black cherries and violets and the palate is rich and spicy with great mouth feel and excellent length.

This wine, a Piebald, meaning black and white, is a co-fermentation of the blackest Syrah grapes, with a hatful of the purest white Viognier. Deep in colour, the wine is almost black, yet is also vibrant and bright. The nose is perfumed with apricots, spice and liquorice; a pretty, fragrant wine with a sweet juice and velvety palate. The finish is elegant with savoury spice and a fine tannin length and persistence.

Steve Maglieri's Serafino Sorrento Shiraz, is one the most flavourful McLaren Shiraz's we've seen for quite some time. Spicy and rich on the front palate that then leads to a supreme density consisting of ripe plums and blackcurrants. If you're a McLaren Vale Shiraz lover, this Sorrento Shiraz has your name written all over it.

Well known here in Australia, Haselgrove are under going somewhat of a renaissance due to recently being bought by a group of South Australian wine stalwarts including Steve Maglieri. Their Bella Vigna (Beautiful Vineyard) Shiraz is a great example of why McLaren Vale Shiraz is the hallmark of the region. Bursting with cherries, red currants and spicy pepper notes, this a great Shiraz to pair with eggplant parmigiana or barbecued lamb shanks.

Reynella's Basket Pressed Shiraz is a quintessential McLaren Vale Shiraz. A template if you will of what McLaren Vale wines aspire to be. Dark, brooding fruits of blackberry and Satsuma plum intermingled with bitter dark chocolate and endless ripe tannins that carry the wine right through. A perfect cellaring option, or if you prefer your fruit big and bold, enjoy now.

Shingleback's Red Knot Shiraz is a superb example of how a McLaren Vale Shiraz should be. Rich, luscious aromas followed by a medium-bodied palate with well balanced acidity, tannins and texture. The 2010 gives flavours of ripe strawberries, blackberries and rose petals with hints of cashew and creme brulee. Enjoy this excellent value Shiraz now or let it develop for a few years in the cellar.