The ubiquitous Jacob’s Creek Reserve Shiraz, mainstay of mid-week takeaway nights and pours by the glass in country pubs. Can’t argue with the consistency.

Jacob’s Creek, Reserve, Shiraz, Limestone Coast, 2016

Appears a little soupy in the glass, if  you didn’t know you’d think it was unfiltered. Smells just like you want Shiraz to smell like. Plenty of peppery spice, plums, red and black berries, charcuterie meats and sweet vanilla tinged oak influences. Good balance of flavour without being too sweet or simple: bright plums, chocolate off set with pepper and clove spices. The tannin structure will let you throw a decent cut of meat or baked mushroom dish at it and handle with aplomb.

RRP: $17.99
Alc: 14.3%
Rating: 17/20

Wine sample courtesy of Jacob’s Creek