Region: Rhone Valley, France

Grape Variety: Shiraz/Syrah

Tasting Notes: The palate is dense with layers of blackerries, damsons, black cherries, liqourice, tar and all spice - a nod to the 15% new oak used in maturation, which brings complexity while leaving the emphasis on the purity of the fruit. Tannins are mouthcoating but gloriously fine and silky, while aromas of incense, violets, graphite and a dash of acidity bring a fragrant and refreshing lift. For all its richness and ripe fruit flavours, this is crisper and more poised than recent vintages. Elegant and beautifully balanced with a lingering finish.

Food Pairing: This wine would pair well with a rich cut of pork, slow-cooked shoulder or braised belly-pork.