Kaesler Wines W.O.M.S. Shiraz Cabernet, Barossa Valley W.O.M.S. stands for ‘Weapon of Mass Seduction.’ When it comes to the name of this wine, there are two camps – those who like it and those who very much don’t. Conduct this survey before and after tasting and the results will be quite different. Many in the ‘no’ camp, will switch sides after tasting this classic Australian blend of Shiraz (planted 1961) and Cabernet Sauvignon (planted 1985). Expect black cherry, vanilla and swatch of savoury notes. The WONS is made only in years where the fruit reaches dizzying heights in terms of quality. After pressing, the free-run juice is collected over a day and a half before making its way into mature Nevers oak. There it will remain in that state for more than two years prior to the final blending. Bottled without fining or filtering, the result is a wine that Kaesler advise will age for 30 years. But why so conservative? It could go on and on but it does need a bit of time in the cellar.

Kaesler Alte Reben Shiraz was crafted using fruit sourced from the Marananga vineyard. Handpicked and left on skins for 7 days, the wine was pumped twice a day, followed by maturation in French oak. The resulting Shiraz wine obtained presents a deep red colour. Aromas of mulberry, blackberry, dark chocolate and espresso flow off the elegant bouquet. The scrumptious palate features juicy fruit flavours integrating with youthful oak tannins. This wonderful red varietal can be cellared gracefully for a few years. It tastes excellent with brisket, grilled lamb and beef stew.