The variety that put McLaren Vale on the map.

Shiraz

There have been a myriad of grape varieties grown in McLaren Vale over the years. Some, like Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon have proven to be worthwhile and make consistently great wines. Others, like Pinot Noir and Riesling are just not well suited and have been removed or grafted. The quality of McLaren Vale Shiraz has been understood for quite some time, none more so than Hunter Valley Winemakers. There are many wine company connections between McLaren Vale and the Hunter, with large quantities of McLaren Vale Shiraz finding its way into Hunter Valley reds to bolster their softer style in vintages past. Now, Shiraz has become the most favoured Australian red wine globally, with McLaren Vale producing some of the finest examples. The combination of the local climate with close proximity to the ocean, diverse and ancient geology, varied topography and modern viticulture produces a range of high quality Shiraz wines in varying styles around McLaren Vale.

“For fans of big, bruising reds from McLaren Vale, look no further than this densely packed Shiraz that is guaranteed to put a big smile on your face. Deeply coloured, it immediately explodes with lashings of dark fruits; licorice and blackberry essence with a couple of shakes of Szechuan pepper all well matched with high quality oak. Ripe and chunky on the palate, the fruit is plush with an attractive rustic, earthy edge before delivering a long and powerful finish. Super value for big red fans.”

94 Points, Angus Hughson, Winepilot.com. February 2022

“Happy days. A great McLaren Vale Shiraz. I haven’t seen these Rusty Mutt wines for a few years. One thing that hasn’t changed is the consistency across the range. The Tempranillo and GSM are right in the slot and this Shiraz is no different. There is much to enjoy here. The licks of caramel, the dense fruit, flashes of licorice and a subtle nudge of herbs. There is a comfort factor that it provides as well. Sips by the camp fire, glasses shared with a steak, the melted chocolate feels through the mouth ensure this slides through with ease. Laced with soft spices, the finish just rolls on and on. Nicely done.”

92 Points, Steve Leszczynski, QWine reviews, February 2022