The Islander Estate Vineyards, The Red Shiraz, 2023, Kangaroo Island, Australia

Region Kangaroo Island Country Australia Type Red Grape Shiraz Style Structured, savoury, elegant. ABV 14% Closure Screwcap Method Sustainable A French winemaker, an Australian island and a Shiraz made for the everyday pleasures. Because good wine shouldn't need an excuse. About the wine Not every great bottle needs a special occasion. Sometimes a good burger, a few friends and a generous glass of red are all the plans you need. Meet The Red, Jacques Lurton's take on an everyday Australian Shiraz, with a little French thinking behind it. Jacques is no stranger to winemaking, having spent decades working across some of the world's most celebrated wine regions. But it was Kangaroo Island, with its wild landscapes, cooling ocean breezes and remarkable vineyards, that convinced him to put down roots in Australia. And here's where things get interesting. While Australian Shiraz is often associated with big, powerful reds, Kangaroo Island's cooler climate allows Jacques to take a different approach. Think bright fruit, gentle tannins and plenty of character without the heaviness. The grapes are fermented at cool temperatures in stainless steel to keep all that lovely fruit intact, then spend several months in French oak, adding a little richness and roundness. Tasting notes Juicy cherries, ripe mulberries and red berries, with a sprinkle of black pepper, eucalyptus and toasted vanilla. Soft, rounded and generous, with a subtle smoky touch and a lingering finish. Food Pairing Suggestions Fire up the barbecue! Think juicy burgers, grilled sausages, smoky ribs or a slow-cooked beef casserole. And yes, Friday night pizza absolutely counts. This is the kind of red that works just as well with a proper Sunday roast as it does with takeaway on the sofa. About the winemaker In 2000 Jacques Lurton planted an 11 ha vineyard near Parndana in Kangaroo Island's heartland and christened the estate 'The Islander'. Close planting to restrict yields and increase concentration, fermentation in concrete tanks and old-fashioned basket pressing, plus quality fine-grained French oak, all combine to produce wines with great structure and longevity.