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O’Leary Walker Clare Valley McLaren Vale Shiraz

Clare shiraz is not inherently lacking, so as to call for a blending partner, but the combination has always seemed to work for O’Leary Walker. A blend of a little more than two-thirds Clare defines a succulent, voluptuous, exuberant and fruit-infused shiraz, layered with sweet, ripe mulberries, spicy mixed berry compote, anise and black pastilles. A long spell of more than two years in French oak barrels introduces subtle savoury, gamey complexity and dark chocolate notes, behind waves of black fruits and fine, supple tannins. $17 at Wine Cow.