Backline "Block Raiders" Langhorne Creek Shiraz 2018

BLOCK RAIDERS was a favourite play of the boys during their Wallabies career. One of the most famous executions of this play was during the 2010 TRI NATIONS match against South Africa at Bloemfontein. Drew's 71st minute try off the back of a block raiders play paved the way for a 41-39 point win. This was the Wallabies' first win on the Highveld since 1963. If you look closely you can see the play mapped out in the background of the label.

It also talks to the cheeky way in which they have raided some of the region’s best “blocks” of Shiraz in order to create this charismatic wine.

From ex-LVMH supremo Dave Krenich, a great fella, rugby enthusiast, nice wine liker. He has some pals who like touching leather balls, namely, Matt Giteau, Adam Ashley Cooper and Drew Mitchell – they’re also owners in the Backline brand. I played rugby with a couple of Mortlock brothers at Gordon who turned out pretty good; hope that counts.

Lush, supple, soft and dark fruited red. Easy to like. Easy to guzzle. Ripe plum, struck flint, new leather and seaweed scents. Pleasing and regional. The palate has some gloss and shine, more of the bouquet’s fruit and greenery characters, a bit of regional saltiness to finish. Simple, done well. A convincing mid-week red to watch re-runs of mid-90s Shute Shield games.

MIKE BENNIE - WINEFRONT Apr 2020