Three Dark Horses The Bandy McLaren Vale Shiraz 2014

Named in honour of winemaker Matt Broomhead’s great grandfather whole was nicknamed ‘Bandy Legs’. Great name that, and apparently he was quite a horseman.

Dark maroon red, this smells of classic Vale Shiraz, with wet bricks, tar and cooked plum. Mid weight and all about plum fruit, the oak providing background richness, the tannins light and gentle. It could do with a little more intensity, but the Vale style is singing here. Best drinking: 2016 – 2024. 16.8/20, 89/100. 14%, $22. Would I buy it? I’d go a glass.