First Impressions
S.C. Pannell McLaren Vale Grenache Shiraz Touriga 2023 arrives at £19.95 for 75cl, and at this price, it needs to offer genuine quality to stand out in a crowded market. McLaren Vale is known for its powerful black fruited wines and this one has fruit in spades but with a lovely freshness. There is lots of ripe bramble fruits, damson and black cherry but
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On the Nose and Palate
The nose offers concentrated cassis and morello cherry, with savoury undertones of iron, dried rosemary, and black pepper. Moving to the palate, the wine is rich and rounded, with plum compote, chocolate, and liquorice notes supported by ripe integrated tannins. The finish is medium-long with ripe berry flavours fading into subtle oak and a clean mineral edge.
Food Pairing and Serving
This pairs beautifully with roasted red meats, aged cheeses, and hearty stews. Serve at around 16–18°C, and consider decanting for 30 minutes to let the aromas fully develop.
The Verdict
S.C. Pannell McLaren Vale Grenache Shiraz Touriga 2023 earns a well-deserved 7 out of 10. This is an very good red that delivers Grenache, Shiraz with genuine conviction and craft. At £19.95, the quality-to-price ratio here is genuinely impressive. Whether you're building a cellar or simply looking for something excellent to drink tonight, this bottle earns its place.
