An absolute steal for the price, this Shiraz shows off the very best of cool-climate Australia. While warmer regions like McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley are rightly famous for turning out rich and plush styles of Shiraz, cooler locales like the Grampians in Victoria are producing equally stunning, spicier versions of the variety that bridge the gap between the Old and New World. The 2021 Cliff Edge Shiraz by famed Mount Langi Ghiran is a perfect example of this and drinking so well right now – balancing concentrated wild blackberry, plum and blueberry notes with super savory freshly ground peppercorn, olive tapenade and faint woodsmoke, all wrapped in clove, cardamom, and a touch of toasty oak. Despite having such high density on the nose, the palate is bright and fresh, almost lean on the finish. There’s a woodsy feel to the wine and a quiet intensity, bringing up memories of conversation by the campfire and hikes in the forest. Its cool-climate precision emphasizes finesse, aromatics, and spice over sheer weight, offering more elegance than many other Australian Shirazes. All this savoriness and restraint calls to mind the Northern Rhone, of course, but the brightness and freshness of the fruit is pure Australian. It would pair beautifully with spring lamb, roast beef, or even earthy vegetarian dishes like grilled eggplant or lentils. At this price, there’s no reason not to pick up a few bottles – it’s a weeknight wine that truly overdelivers.