Gardner’s Vineyard Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 from the rolling hills just north of Port Lincoln is a classic Aussie blend, bringing together the generosity of Shiraz with the structure of Cabernet in a full‑flavoured country red. This Gardner’s Vineyard Shiraz Cabernet 2013 has clearly impressed the judges too, nabbing 4.5 stars and a huge 97 points from Winestate. It’s a serious over‑achiever for a modestly priced Eyre Peninsula wine.

Mulberry and black pepper from the Shiraz lead the nose, wrapped around Cabernet’s blackcurrant and fruitcake characters for a richly perfumed, dark‑fruited profile. The palate is packed with flavour yet kept in check by soft, integrated tannins and a 14.5% frame that feels warming rather than hot. It’s generous, ripe and satisfying, with that mulberry, blackcurrant and subtle spice carrying through to a long, mouth‑coating finish.

This is tailor‑made for hearty fare – think grilled steaks, lamb chops, beef casseroles or a slow‑cooked ragù, where the wine’s richness and tannin can really shine. It will also sit happily alongside a Sunday roast or a platter of aged cheddar and other hard cheeses when you want a comforting, full‑bodied red. Pour it into a decent glass, give it a brief splash in a jug, and you’ve got a cracking, crowd‑pleasing Shiraz‑Cabernet.