Philip White. Drinkster 10th July 2014
Bellevue Estate McLaren Vale Shiraz 2012
$19; 14% alcohol; screw cap; 93+++ points

The 2011 version of this won the ol’ drinkster’s heart then went on to win hat-trick gongs at the national Boutique Wine Awards and is only just now beginning its ascent. This one, a more conventional wine in every way other than its sublime quality – it was a much more conventional vintage – has just won Best Value Shiraz Under $25 retail at The Edinburgh Cellars Shiraz Challenge. The other Ed winner, the Torbreck Factor, is $120. Snigger. You don’t get more honest or lovely wine than this. It’s a bit thick first thing in the morning, maybe a bit blocky, but last night and the night before it was creamy and silky and caressing. It was grown and made in the main street of McLaren Vale. Right across the street from Elbow Room, come to think of it. In marine limestone. On the family block by Corey Vandeleur. It’s like a sinful syrup-filled lozenge, whimpering for a big stack of field mushrooms, or thin slices of rare veal liver with morel cream sauce. Like it’s royal wine. Like the 11, it’ll start its take-off about a year or three from now. It’s an impossible gift at this price so climb aboard and enjoy listening to the engines warming.