Homes Shiraz 1998

By MICHELE CURTIS

Like many of the Homes wines, the second label of Massoni, these grapes originated in Langhorne Creek, South Australia before being transported to the Mornington Peninsula for Home's touch. Ian Home has a reputation for his sparkling wines: he was the brains behind Yellowglen that is now owned by one of the big guns, Mildara Blass.

But back to the shiraz. Langhorne Creek is the poor cousin of McLaren Vale, just some 50km to the east, and is responsible for producing lots of seriously good shiraz, which until recently has never been bragged about.

Expect to see the name Langhorne Creek predominantly placed on more wine labels over the next year or two, as there are only four wineries in the area, much of the fruit grown here is snapped up by big and small producers alike to bulk out blends, or to create good shiraz in their own right.

This shiraz has the most beautiful mauve colour with a peppery raspberry nose. The palate is smooth and delightful; it sneaks up on you and takes your taste buds by surprise with its deep rich berry and gamey peppery flavours.

Drink it with grilled steak and mushrooms, pot-roasted veal or spiced quail.

RRP $25
Rating: 4 out of 5