The essence of Mitolo Wines can be traced back centuries through generations of agriculturists and viticulturalists. In 2000, Mitolo made its first Shiraz, and two years later its first Cabernet Sauvignon. Since that time, Mitolo has championed these two varieties with fruit from some of McLaren Vale’s finest vineyards. Whilst building its reputation for premium Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon offerings, Mitolo expanded its range to include several Italian varieties paying homage to the family’s roots.

Precise and driven. Fine boned yet eminently present. Red and dark fruits along with mocha and liquorice nuances, yield to highly finessed and incredibly fine-grained savoury tannins. Graphite in texture, the wine is tightly wound within long mineral acidity, which carries intensity through the palate. White pepper, cedar and elegant allspice notes linger throughout the enduring, linear finish.

Inky colour and flavour. Coconut oak nestles into blackberried fruit, the result intense in a cuddly way. That there is the main appeal, but it's not a one trick pony: smoky, almost woody, tones play along the background, aided by sweet roasted nut characters. Upper echelon without question. Drink to: 2032; Alcohol: 14.5%; Rating: 95 Points; James Halliday Wine Companion