Charles Melton The Father in Law Shiraz 2023

Charles Melton’s Father in Law Shiraz 2023 brings Clare Valley fruit together with Shiraz from Krondorf and Lyndoch. The Clare component gives the dark fruit a lift of sage and oregano, a savoury detail that makes this generous red especially good with food from the grill.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Deep garnet in the glass.

Aroma: Blackberry, dark chocolate and sweet cherry lead. Give the glass a swirl and look for a savoury note behind the fruit.

Palate: Blackberry and cherry carry through to a generous palate, with sage and oregano adding a savoury edge. Fine tannins give the wine shape, and the darker fruit has room to come through as it opens in the glass.

Finish: Dark fruit and herbs linger, with a smoky edge that works well with food from the grill.

Food Pairing & Serving

Serve around 16–18°C with chargrilled steak or lamb rubbed with rosemary and cracked pepper. The char on the meat picks up the wine’s smoky edge, and the herbs echo its savoury notes. For a meat-free option, try grilled field mushrooms with thyme and a spoonful of creamy polenta. The mushrooms bring out the savoury side of the Shiraz, while the polenta softens the impression of tannin.

For a slow-cooked option, serve it with beef short ribs and rosemary. The wine’s fine tannins suit the richness of the meat.

Cellaring

The dark fruit and fine tannins make this Shiraz appealing to open now, particularly alongside a hearty meal. Those who enjoy a more savoury, developed expression of Shiraz may prefer to give it additional time in bottle.