Cradle of Hills Darkside Shiraz Mourvèdre 2018 from Sellicks Hill in McLaren Vale is a muscular yet finely structured red blend, led by around 70% estate Shiraz with 28% Mourvèdre and a tweak of Grenache for extra lift. It’s small‑batch (about 100 cases), organically grown and very much a Darkside Shiraz Mourvèdre built to show off dark fruit, spice and serious McLaren Vale presence.

In the glass, Darkside opens with blackberry, plum and liquorice, backed by dark chocolate, spice and a savoury, slightly gamey edge from the Mourvèdre. The palate is medium‑ to full‑bodied with all the muscle you expect from a Vale red, yet still balanced, showing dark fruits playing off fine‑grained tannins for a well‑structured, moreish finish. Mourvèdre’s darker tones and the touch of Grenache add depth, chew and aromatic interest without overwhelming the juicy Shiraz core.

Food‑wise, this 2018 Darkside Shiraz Mourvèdre is made for beef and venison – think rib‑eye, slow‑cooked beef cheek, venison pie – as well as lamb shanks, hearty barbecues and rich mushroom or lentil stews. It’ll also work beautifully with aged cheddar and Gouda, or char‑grilled eggplant and peppers, making it a cracking Adelaide‑adjacent option for winter dinners or fire‑side glasses.