TASTING NOTES FOR XO Shiraz McLaren Vale South Australia 2018

🍷 Appearance
Deep ruby to inky purple. Rich and dense in the glass, showing depth and intensity.

👃 Aromas
Lifted and generous, with blackcurrant, plum and hints of raspberry layered over spice and cracked pepper. Subtle notes of dark chocolate and savoury oak add further complexity.

👅 Palate
Full-bodied and expressive, delivering ripe black fruits—blackberry, plum and dark cherry—interwoven with spice and pepper. The palate shows excellent balance, combining richness with freshness and control.

🍈 Texture & Finish
Velvety and smooth, with refined tannins and balanced acidity providing structure. The finish is long and generous, with lingering dark fruit, spice and a subtle savoury edge.

🍇 Overall Style
A classic McLaren Vale Shiraz—rich, bold and fruit-driven, yet refined and balanced. Shows the hallmark generosity of the region with a modern, polished edge.

🍽️ Food Pairing
Perfect with grilled steaks, slow-cooked lamb, barbecue dishes or hearty casseroles. Also excellent with aged cheeses.

🥂 BBD Verdict
A seriously satisfying Shiraz that delivers richness, balance and drinkability. A standout for mixed dozens—offering bold flavour with a smooth, crowd-pleasing finish.

Cheers
Peter Turnbull
Better Buy The Dozen 🍷