Forget about the branding, this is from the house of Yalumba, arguably one of the most caring producers about their base range. The Classic Dry Red doesn’t specify what grapes in it, but I propose are fair bit of Shiraz, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon. No vintage stated on the cask, but the website has 2018 as a suggestion. Maybe a base?

Winesmiths, Classic Dry Red, South Australia, NV

Big wafts of chocolate, plum, dark berries, a little graphite/pencil, dark raspberry, bluestone and beetroot earthiness. The complexity doesn’t quite transfer to the palate. Sure, it tastes of  a real red grape blend and the fruit is clean, but there’s little depth to the richness while the tannins are sandy and loose finishing with quite a short flavour tail. Will stay fresh on hand for quite a while for a cheeky glass while you’re cooking.

RRP: $13.99 (2 Litres)
Alc: 13%
Rating: 15.75/20 (85/100)

Wine sample courtesy of Yalumba / Winesmiths