Mr. Riggs The Chap Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 

Mr. Riggs' flagship wine is his tribute to the masters of the 'claret' blend, cellared for several years before release - an excellent gifting wine.

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Tasting Notes

Mr. Riggs The Chap Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

"This is both powerful and graceful, showcasing a rich array of dark fruits, smoked game, assorted nuts, and mocha notes on the nose. On the palate, it offers a superbly weighted experience with seductive complexity and a velvety texture. The finish is impressively long and satisfying. Wonderfully harmonious and seamless, with outstanding depth and opulence. A blend of grapes from McLaren Vale & Coonawarra. At its best: now to 2041." 97 Points, Sam Kim Wine Orbit

“The classic Shiraz Cabernet blend from McLaren Vale and Coonawarra has the hearts of many; this is an iconic wine by name and nature. You’ll need a sturdy wine knife to get through the heavy wax seal, probably designed with late nights in mind and questionable choices. This is something you want to open and remember. Red berries invite you in, pomegranate and hints of quince, quickly followed by a crowd of blackberries huddled together. There are the cupboard aromas of a baker’s spices drawer and some burdock root, Assam tea and dark chocolate. An effort has been made to make this insatiably drinkable, with tannins just licking the side of your palate, but acidity encouraging you to lift the glass again. This really does bring the light and dark of the two varieties and demonstrates their befitting complementary union. Not only do the blends represent wine culture, they encourage conversation and respect across regions. A real beauty.” 97 Points, The Vintage Journal

"Shiraz (55%) from the estate’s Piebald Gully vineyard in Blewitt Springs, the cabernet sauvignon (45%) from Coonawarra’s Weatherall vineyard; mainly French barrels, 35% new, with 22 months in oak. This is a silky, slinky expression, the supple texture and ultrafine play of tannins giving this a degree of suave charm. Blackberries and blackcurrants, some Coonawarra mintiness, dark and milk chocolate, maritime notes, nori and violet, currants, dry black tea and iron oxide, oak spice and charred vanilla. The varieties are well meshed, supportive and interactive, the whole package one of relative elegance and serene delivery, given the inherent fruit power and presence." 95 Points, Marcus Ellis, Halliday Wine Companion

"Good depth and hue of colour; deep blackberry, graphite and tar aromas, some ironstone and dark chocolate hints, the palate big and broad, bold and gutsy with dry earth/terracotta and cocoa powder nuances. Lashings of dry powdery tannins right across the palate. A solid full-bodied red." 93 Points, Huon Hooke, The Real Review 

"Bold, intense style with vanilla kiss of oak, lovely blackcurrant set against dark plummy berry of Cabernet-Shiraz." 93 Points / Silver, IWC 2026 Tranche 1
 

Winemaker Ben (Mr.) Riggs follows the philosophy “iconic wines from iconic regions”. Whether it’s McLaren Vale Shiraz, Coonawarra Cabernet, or Clare Valley Riesling, his wines are expressing the essence of the vineyard and variety in a style that is big, rich and complex, but also with finesse, texture and elegance. In Ben’s own words: “Think Ella Fitzgerald – bombastic and powerful with a huge vocal range, yet with purity of tone and a gentle sensibility when needed.”

Producer website: https://mrriggs.com.au/

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