Cape Jaffa Epic Drop Shiraz 2023 from Mount Benson on the Limestone Coast is a cool‑climate Shiraz with serious intent – deep in colour, dark‑fruited and spicy, but framed by natural acidity and a savoury, coastal edge rather than heavy sweetness. It follows the 2022 as an “epic” single‑estate style, offering intensity and elegance in equal measure at a very fair price.

In the glass, Cape Jaffa Epic Drop Shiraz shows lifted blackberry and dark plum with white pepper, coffee grinds, spice and a flick of rosella jam on the nose. The palate shifts into rich black fruits and cassis with hints of soy/vegemite, smoky earth and gamey savouriness, all wrapped in satiny, balanced tannins and a thread of cool, coastal acidity that keeps it focused and long. It’s warm of heart but elegant in nature, intense yet beautifully drinkable, with an 8–12 year drinking window easily on the cards.

Food‑wise, Epic Drop Shiraz 2023 is tailor‑made for grilled lamb chops, char‑grilled beef, roast beetroot and mushrooms, slow‑cooked lamb shoulder or a good old‑fashioned sausage sizzle, where its dark fruit and savoury spice can shine. It’ll also pair happily with hard cheeses and rich vegetarian dishes like lentil shepherd’s pie or smoky eggplant, making it a versatile cool‑climate Shiraz for both coastal barbecues and winter roasts.