2022 Maxwell Ellen Street Shiraz, McLaren Vale

Maxwell Ellen Street Shiraz from McLaren Vale is a bold, full-bodied red that reflects the deep, dark fruit and structural finesse the region is known for. Sourced from old vines planted on the Ellen Street block directly behind the Maxwell winery in the heart of McLaren Vale, this Shiraz is all about intensity, complexity and balance — a classic expression of site and variety with plenty of depth and cellar potential.

Maxwell Wines is a family-run estate with a strong focus on traditional winemaking and site expression. Winemaker Mark Maxwell and the team take a hands-on approach to the Ellen Street Shiraz, using open fermenters, basket pressing, and ageing in a mix of new and seasoned French and American oak to bring out both richness and structure. The result is a wine that’s plush and powerful, but also shows finesse and restraint where it matters.

In the glass, it’s dark and concentrated, with aromas of blackberry, plum, dark chocolate, vanilla, pepper and sweet spice. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, packed with ripe black fruit and layered with mocha, cedar and subtle earth. Fine tannins and well-integrated oak give the wine length and balance, with a warming finish that lingers on spice and black cherry.

Food pairing: A natural match for slow-cooked lamb shoulder, chargrilled ribeye, beef brisket, or eggplant parmigiana. For cheese, go for aged cheddar or Manchego.

Cellar potential: Approachable now with a decant, but will reward 10 to 15 years of cellaring as it gains savoury complexity, leather and spice.