2021 Mr. Riggs The Chap Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale Coonawarra

This is both powerful and graceful, showcasing a rich array of dark fruits, smoked game, assorted nuts, and mocha notes on the nose. On the palate, it offers a superbly weighted experience with seductive complexity and a velvety texture. The finish is impressively long and satisfying. Wonderfully harmonious and seamless, with outstanding depth and opulence. A blend of grapes from McLaren Vale & Coonawarra. At its best: now to 2041.

97 points Sam Kim wineorbit.com

From a blend of sun drenched McLaren Vale vineyards and the famed terra rossa soils of Coonawarra, Mr Riggs The Chap Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon brings together two classic South Australian regions in a style that is both generous and structured. Ben Riggs has built a long career crafting expressive regional wines, drawing on decades of experience to shape blends that deliver depth, drinkability and unmistakable Australian character. The combination of Vale richness and Coonawarra’s cassis driven precision gives this wine its distinctive balance.

A deep ruby purple fills the glass with bold intensity. Aromas rise with blackberry, blackcurrant and dark plum layered with cedar, cracked pepper, dark chocolate and subtle dried herb complexity. There is an inviting confidence to the bouquet, plush yet savoury.

The palate is medium to full bodied and smooth, delivering concentrated dark berry fruit framed by fine tannins and balanced acidity. Notes of liquorice, cocoa and gentle oak spice unfold through the mid palate, leading to a long, warming finish that feels both powerful and composed. While immediately appealing for its richness, this blend will continue to gain savoury depth over eight to ten years in the cellar.

Cumin spiced lamb flatbreads piled high, slow braised beef shin melting into its sauce, or smoky grilled chorizo passed around with crusty bread and olive oil. Queens of the Stone Age Rated R or something gritty from The Drones humming in the background, the wine settling into a night that feels generous, loud in the best way, and unapologetically South Australian.