💎 The Hunt Continues... 💎
This week’s wine came recommended by one of you, and we digit! It's the kind of red you can depend on. Bold enough, full of flavour, and zero pretentiousness. Say g’day to a no-fuss Aussie classic that’s just as comfortable paired with a 1kg Rib Eye as it is on the couch with your latest binge-worthy series.
But first🚨 Don't keep our hunt together a secret...please forward this email to the first friend that comes to mind.
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Big, Bold, and Pretty Bloody Good 👍
🍷 St Hallett Gamekeeper's Shiraz (2022)
The St Hallett Gamekeeper's Shiraz (2022) doesn't take itself too seriously. That's not to say it isn't bold or fresh - because it is - but it certainly isn't trying to overcomplicate what it means to be a tasty Shiraz.
At first you may feel like you've just taken on a mouthful of dark berries, almost like someone smashed a bunch of red and purple fruit together in a fruit salad. But then - and you'll need to pay attention for this - subtle hints of chocolate and cinnamon will start shining through.
I suppose "interesting" can be overused at times, but not for this bottle...that's exactly what it is. It’s smooth, it’s juicy, and it’s the kind of wine that leaves you thinking, “Yep, I’d go back for seconds.”
This could easily be your go-to red for when the barbie’s fired up and there’s a steak sizzling away. Don’t have a steak? A creamy pasta dish would go just as well. Plus, at what we paid ($11.40), it’s like finding a $20 note in your jeans pocket - unexpected and highly satisfying.
Whether you’re impressing the in-laws or just unwinding after a long day, this Shiraz is the type of wine that’ll make you look good without needing a manual. It’s reliable, easy to find, and just fancy enough to keep you feeling smug about your choice.
VITR Official Score: 8 / 10
👍 Reality vs Perception: A typical St Hallett bottle sits well beyond our $15 budget, so the Gamekeeper's Shiraz which is readily available between $12 - $16, is a strong contender for the "Impress/Fool Your In-Laws" award.
👩🎨 Label Aesthetics: The classic design is our style, and once you know what you're looking for, it seems to jump off the shelf.
👴 Comparison to Nonno’s Home Brew: Nonno would love this one, in fact, he may even think it's one of his.
🪩 Fit for an Engagement Party: This definitely meets the brief, although for what could be a volume purchase, it's hard to put this ahead of the Grant Burge Classic Collection Shiraz reviewed back in Issue 1.
🤑 Keep the Change: The tip with this drop is to wait for it to go on special. Not on special? You'd better have some snacks ready to go.
Real Talk
📖 Fake It 'Til You Make It
Somm: Short for sommelier, aka the person at a restaurant who knows way too much about wine but makes you feel cool for asking questions.
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💡 Sip Tip
Avoid Purple Teeth: A quick swig of water (or white wine, if you’re ready for a big night) after each glass keeps the dreaded "Shiraz Smile" away.
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🍿 Sip & Snack
Moscato & Thai Curry: Sweet Moscato cools off a fiery Thai curry with just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spice.
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Until Next Week, Cheers 🍷
From one reader recommendation to another, next week’s wine will be a Pinot Grigio that comes highly recommended. Perfect for the warm weather!
P.S. Have a wine-loving friend? Don’t be shy, share the love and forward this on! 🍷
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