Heartland

Striking from the outset, this wine’s dark ruby colour promises good things to come. The nose is alluring, with notes of blueberry, plum, dark chocolate, and vanilla. Paired with lamb backstrap pasta, this is a substantial dish, seasoned with olive oil, fresh basil, and pine nuts. Glossy, pure, and fresh, the wine harmonises with the lamb, combining beautifully with the olive oil, mustard, and lemon dressing to create a meaty, juicy encounter. The Director’s Cut delivers on its promise of spice and smoke, with a long-lasting finish underpinned by vivid acidity and a well-defined tannin structure. The wine mingles with the tomato and feta, complementing the basil and leaving a complex bittersweet finish. After the food, the wine alone is pure delight, offering fine, powdery and smooth textures. I truly enjoy how creamy, soft, and crunchy this food and wine pairing turned out.

Inky hued, this is an aromatic Shiraz with notes of strawberry jam, beet juice, cola and peppery spice. The powerful palate is a touch warm and it finishes flatly, but a lovely lift of acidity and sandy-textured tannins tug at the tart cranberry and cherry fruit.