Named after Ben’s mother, Valerie, the Matriarch of the Riggs family. 15% of the fruit was kept as whole bunch to add texture and complexity as well as a little bit of tannin weight. The wine was fermented over an 8 day period and then pressed directly to a mixture of French barriques and puncheons with 20% being new oak where it matured for a period of 6 months. Semi translucent red to dark red core with black toned edges and a light red hue. Perfumed like violet scents mix with red to dark cherry and wild strawberries followed by some forest floor, fresh herb and spicy cedar notes. Delicious dark cherry and strawberry fruits are delivered with intensity and possess a lovely supple feel. Lending further interest are notions of subtle anise, dried herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar. Excellent power wave with polished tannins and a long succulently fruited finish that’s quite savoury. Drink over the next 4-5 years. Alc. 13.5%

COLOUR: Deep garnet red with a hint of purple, AROMA: Perfumed cherry and redcurrant fruit with charcuterie and toasty notes, FLAVOUR: Plush and elegant, the palate shows dark cherry fruit with crunchy acid and fine tannin

The Maxwell Nero d'Avola 22 2022 is a stunning representation of this classic Italian grape grown in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia. The deep ruby hue of this wine immediately catches the eye, hinting at the bold flavours and aromas to come. On the nose, vibrant notes of blackberry, plum, and cherry are met with a subtle spiciness and earthy undertones. On the palate, the wine explodes with rich, dark fruit flavours, accompanied by a velvety texture and well-integrated tannins. Hints of vanilla and oak add depth and complexity to the wine, leading to a long, satisfying finish. This vintage is a testament to Maxwell Wines' dedication to producing exceptional wines year after year. Enjoy now or cellar for a few years to experience the full potential of this Nero d'Avola.

Another very attractive release from the hugely dynamic Zonte's Footstep. An Adelaide Hills Shiraz with TWO Double Golds "...offering excellent drinking. 92pts” (Sam Kim, Wine Orbit). He adds that it is: “Sweetly fruited with complexity, the wine exhibits aromas of black and blueberry, star anise, floral notes, and hazelnut on the nose. The palate is equally satisfying with a plump mouthfeel backed by fleshy texture and supple tannins, offering excellent drinking. 92pts” (Sam Kim, Wine Orbit).

High up in the Adelaide Hills, Paracombe is owned and operated by the Drogemuller family, which it has passionately done since 1983. Sourced from both estate and selected grower fruit, Paracombe Shiraz shows wonderful ripe fruit aromas with a delicate cool-climate aspect. Notes of cherries, plums, pepper and spice are notable along with a palate of layered spicy fruit and a fine tannin structure.