Riposte Wines’ The Cutlass Shiraz 2023 is a lithe, Adelaide Hills‑grown expression from Tim and Nick Knappstein that balances the flesh and spice of Shiraz with the cool‑climate restraint of a single Woodside vineyard. Juicy and character‑driven rather than heavy, it’s a regional Shiraz that feels modern, drinkable and above‑squad for the price.

The nose opens with perfumed red and black cherry, blueberry, mulberry and a touch of raspberry, wrapped in dried herbs, cracked pepper and a waft of spicy oak. The palate is medium‑bodied with sweet plum, cherry and red liquorice fruit, lifted by blue fruits and a thread of olive‑savoury nuance, all framed by fine‑grained tannins and a subtle lift of French‑style spice.

This is a Shiraz that thrives on the table: pour it alongside slow‑braised lamb, grilled beef with mustard mash, barbecue ribs, Moroccan lamb tagine or rich lentil‑based dishes. The Cutlass Shiraz 2023 carries real length and grip, finishing with a silky, peppery tail that will keep you pouring long after the main course is done.