Mr. Riggs Regional Series The Gaffer McLaren Vale Shiraz 2023

This is a most stylish example of McLaren Vale Shiraz. It was a cool season, which is reflected in a slightly more restrained and yet still compelling and flavoursome wine that captures so much of what McLaren Vale is all about. It’s designed to be soft and plush and generous with the fruit dominance obvious from the outset. And yet there is some fine tannin in here, contributing to its poise and finish. A slightly gravelly note on the palate adds a textural complexity that’s most appealing. This is a wine that, over the years, has contributed more than $220,000 towards cancer research, with a share of the purchase price going into this incredibly worthy cause.