RedHeads Barrel Monkeys Shiraz Cabernet 2022

Every great winemaker starts out as a ‘barrel monkey’—dragging hoses, clambering over barrel stacks and scrubbing the tanks. At the award-winning, eco-friendly RedHeads winery, their true genius can be unleashed on some of the greatest grapes there is to offer. This bold Cabernet-Shiraz showcases the esteemed McLaren Vale region and is a fitting tribute to all the ‘barrel monkeys’ who have honed their skills at RedHeads.

Because the RedHeads team has excellent relationships with top grape growers, the grapes for this wine come from four carefully chosen marquee vineyards in the McLaren Vale between 50 and 70 years of age. The fruit from these vineyards over the years has gone into highly sought after and expensive wines made by McLaren Vale royalty that have won multiple trophies and gold medals on the Australian and international circuits. Such is the nature of the rebellious RedHeads, they’ve managed to steal away their piece of these highly prized vineyards to create a wine of great provenance without the high price tag that would accompany a big brand name.

A testament to its exceptional grapes and winemakers, Nat McMurtrie and Steve Grimley, Barrel Monkeys is big and bold, yet vibrant and fresh. Beautifully fruit forward and approachable. It's brimming with bold blackberry, ripe cassis and subtle milk chocolate notes, plus gentle spice thanks to roughly 16 months in French oak. Smooth tannins and a plush mouthfeel contribute to its long, enjoyable finish.

Barrel Monkeys deserves an equally full-flavored meal—rosemary-scented lamb chops, a ribeye steak or hearty stews would all be delicious. Try it now, while stocks last.