At the San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge earlier this year, only a handful of entrants earned 95 points or higher, and most of them will set you back at least $60 Cdn. So for Wakefield’s Jaraman Shiraz to score a 95 rating, at just $24.95, while earning the show’s designation of Best Shiraz, was high praise indeed.

Not that I need someone else to tell me about Wakefield’s Jaraman category of wines, which celebrates the distinct characteristics of some of Australia’s best wine-growing regions. But the 2019 edition of this particular shiraz, just released at the LCBO, might be my favourite to date.

Wakefield Jaraman Shiraz 2019 — Clare Valley/McLaren Vale, Australia ($24.95)
Here’s a multi-layered, flavour-packed South Australia shiraz. There’s a peppery spice and light eucalyptus that comes from the McLaren Vale portion of this wine, while the concentration of dark red fruit and blueberry flavours is primarily derived from the Clare Valley. A hot 2019 growing season has added to the density of the profile. The oak contributes a little coffee and chocolate to the mix, but there’s plenty of acidity to prevent the final recipe from seeming too heavy or jammy. There’s a healthy 14.5% alcohol too, but it’s well integrated, as are the tannins. Just a really well balanced wine overall. Should make for a great gift for red wine lovers, given the value for the dollar and layers of full-bodied enjoyment. Drink it now, or cellar it for 5+ years. 91