From: Nagambie Lakes, Victoria, Australia
Varietal: Shiraz

Taste: A deep crimson core with purple highlights introduces the wine, offering aromas of ripe plum, blackberry, and blueberry alongside hints of black pepper, anise, and smoked cedar. The palate is structured yet supple, with layers of dark fruit, cocoa, and baking spice unfolding over fine-grained tannins. A vein of fresh acidity lifts the wine, leading to a long, balanced finish marked by savory earth, graphite, and a touch of vanilla from its time in oak.

Pairing: The generous fruit, spice, and structured tannins make it an ideal match for bold, savory dishes. The wine’s dark berry and peppery notes pair seamlessly with slow-roasted lamb shoulder seasoned with rosemary and garlic, while its acidity cuts through the richness of smoky beef brisket or barbecued pork ribs with a molasses-based sauce. The wine’s earthier undertones complement the wild game, such as venison, with juniper and red wine reduction.

About: Tahbilk Winery, established in 1860, is one of Australia’s oldest continuously operating family-owned wineries in Victoria’s Nagambie Lakes region. Its name originates from the local Aboriginal term meaning “place of many watering holes,” acknowledging the estate’s proximity to the Goulburn River and its distinctive inland water system. In its early years, the winery saw the planting of classic European varieties, including Shiraz and Marsanne, which laid the groundwork for its lasting reputation. However, by the late 1890s, ‘Chateau Tahbilk’ entered a period of decline, struggling to uphold its initial prosperity. This changed in 1925 when the estate was acquired by Reginald Purbrick, an entrepreneurial gentleman who purchased the property for £44,879 (approximately $4.5 million today).