Max's Shiraz Cabernet NV (up to 5 years)
Australian shiraz is typically much riper than European-style Syrah. The sweetness is a big draw with these pairings, and once you bring the structure of the Cabernet into the blend you can be adventurous. Think big flavours - and spice. The style acts as a congruent pairing.
Vegetarian: Hearty and weighty is an obvious go to with rich styles of Shiraz Cabernet blends, mushroom and pepper sauce risotto. Rich, creamy lentil stews. Cheese... Strong hard cheeses are a no brainer with this style of wine. In some cases, the fruit sweetness from Aussie Shiraz can happily sit with MILD blue (be careful with intensity of Blue).
'Meat' Option: There is a reason why local wines go well with local cuisine, and the stereotype can be true with Australian wine (or Shiraz Cabernet). Grilled, BBQ (sweet, rich sauces) style... Think smoked brisket, slow cooked meats, flamed charred ribs. A far more everyday occasion would be casseroles in winter, hearty and weighty foods. Cab works wonders with lamb and is a widely versatile food pairing grape.
.jpg?sfrm=jpg "Penfolds Max's")
