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Ben Riggs has hand-crafted a delicious Shiraz Cabernet Merlot blend here that pays homage to the three-spiked prickle that can be found in the McLaren Vale region and the fact that it's hard to ignore. This unctuous red blend is also extremely hard to ignore with its seamless varietal integration that produces a wine full of richness and opulence. Ripe, dark berry fruits courtesy of Merlot along with spice elements from the Shiraz and a firm, but balanced structure from the Cabernet all come together superbly.

In the glass: Medium to deep red black. On the nose: Full of bright red cherry with hints of red olive and fine oak spice. On the palate: Quite a jubey and appealing red fruit core giving long and silken flavours that are generous and classy. Fine oak gives subtle support throughout. Lovely now yet with good mid-term potential.

Savour a glass of The Barque Mclaren Vale Merlot with its sweet & tart notes of mulberry and plum. Expertly mixed with a rich mocha flavour, the finish is velvety and smooth, which pairs well with steak, lamb and chicken.

Château Le Grand Verdus, with 115 hectares of vineyards, maintains a winery in the heart of the hills of Entre Deux Mers, 20km east of Bordeaux, near Saint-Emilion. Interestingly, the wine is unoaked. This allows the fruit full expression. With rich, round pleasant aromas, this wine reflects an intelligent blend of the vines of Grand Verdus. It is intense with the fragrance of red fruits, exotic spices and liquorice - instantly pleasurable. Enjoy over the next three to six years to compliment bistro cuisine, poultry, grilled beef, and relaxed occasions.

Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon 86%; Merlot 14% Purple with crimson edges looks serious in the glass. Tobacco leaf feint cassis purple plums a complex nose which adds weight to the serious theme. Quality MR Cabernet leads the charge here. A wine with high cheek- bones. Just ripe cabernet gives this sinew and poise. Merlot is subservient almost hard to detect. Terrific wine, at almost twice the price.