Triumvirate is a Latin word, coming from Roman times meaning the government of three officers or magistrates functioning jointly. Or in this case Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Shingleback in McLaren Vale have a cellar club called The Pick that is sent out to members during the year. This wine arrived as part of a sample of back vintages.

Shingleback, Triumvirate, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, McLaren Vale, 2013

72% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Cabernet Franc. Starting to show maturity with dulling red edges to the garnet colour. Plums, chocolate, dusty violets, dried kitchen herbs with hints of leathery couches, meaty age and cigar box. Easy plum and chocolate fruit profile and still with a dusty tannin profile. If you’ve got one in your cellar, pull it out now for barbequed lamb.

RRP: $19 (at time of release)
Alc: 14%
Rating: 16.5/20

Wine sample courtesy of Shingleback