2022 Majella The Musician Cabernet Shiraz, Coonawarra

Blackberries, raspberries and summer strawberries. Pomegranate and juniper berries. Woodsy herbs, rosemary, picked thyme and sage leaf. A touch of allspice and clove studs. Nicely integrated to showcase the plushness of shiraz and upright tannins and frame of cabernet sauvignon. It's a wine that you won't mistake for any other region and is a benchmark of a great, very affordable Coonawarra blend.

93 points Special Value Shanteh Wale winecompanion.com.au

Majella The Musician Cabernet Shiraz has become one of Coonawarra’s most celebrated wines, a modern Australian classic that proves world-class quality doesn’t have to come at a lofty price. Crafted by the Lynn family at their famed Majella estate on the fabled “terra rossa” strip, The Musician pays homage to Coonawarra’s history of blending Cabernet Sauvignon with Shiraz — a style that defined much of Australia’s red wine story.

The vineyard source is crucial here: Majella sits on prime red-brown loam over limestone, giving wines both depth of fruit and a line of natural acidity that keeps them fresh and age-worthy. The blend is usually close to equal parts Cabernet and Shiraz, with Cabernet providing structure, cassis and leafy aromatics, while Shiraz contributes plush red and black fruit, spice and generosity. Winemaking is deliberately approachable: cool-fermented to preserve vibrancy, aged in older French and American oak to soften edges without masking fruit, and bottled young to showcase freshness.

The result is a wine that consistently over-delivers. Aromas of blackberry, plum, cassis and redcurrant mingle with spice, chocolate and a touch of mint — that classic Coonawarra signature. The palate is medium-bodied, bright and silky, offering ripe berry fruit supported by fine tannins and a long, juicy finish. It is immensely drinkable in its youth but can cellar comfortably for 5–8 years, developing savoury notes and greater depth.

Food pairings are versatile thanks to its balance and vibrancy. It pairs beautifully with roast lamb, grilled ribeye, or pasta with rich tomato-based sauces. It’s also a smart midweek option with pizza or charcuterie, where its easy-drinking charm really shines.