Crocodile Creek Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon

Crocodile Creek Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon brings together two of the Southern Hemisphere's most expressive grapes, with origins noted in Australia and South Africa. The blend is presented as a full-bodied red that balances bold fruit concentration with assertive tannic structure, giving it presence on the plate and on its own. Early impressions emphasize ripe dark fruit characters and a spicy backbone that reflect both Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon heritage.

On the nose expect an immediate impression of blackberry and black cherry, followed by plum, black pepper and dark cocoa notes. These aromas sit alongside a subtle layer of savory spice, which lifts the fruit and gives the bouquet a rounded complexity. Aromatic intensity is inviting while remaining straightforward, a profile that works well with bolder dishes.

Palate delivery is generous, with dense fruit textures and firm tannins that frame the midpalate. Flavors move from juicy black fruit towards cocoa and toasted spice while acidity keeps the wine balanced and lively. The finish is sustained and gently warming, showing lingering dark fruit and spice notes that echo the nose.

Serve at 17 °C for optimal balance between fruit expression and structural grip. From 1001Spirits selection, buy red wine online from 1001Spirits if you are looking for a versatile, food-friendly bottle that leans to rustic richness and bold flavors.

Red wine style & palate

This Shiraz Cabernet is a classic example of a full-bodied table red that marries Shiraz plushness with Cabernet Sauvignon structure. The Shiraz contribution brings ripe, plush berry notes and a peppery lift while Cabernet Sauvignon adds firmness, dark currant tones and a more grippy tannic frame.

On tasting, the wine opens with dense dark fruit, moving towards blackberry, plum and a hint of cassis. Midpalate texture is substantial and slightly chewy, yet acidity gives clarity so the finish does not feel heavy. Tasting progression is linear and satisfying.

Flavor layers include dark chocolate and mocha accents that soften the fruit, along with a touch of black pepper and baking spice that add brightness. The interplay of fruit sweetness and savory spice makes the palate interesting without being overly complex.

Overall structure is balanced for the style, with ripe tannins, moderate acidity and concentrated flavors that support a long finish. The mouthfeel is broad, making it well suited to hearty dishes and cheese plates that need a wine with presence.

Taste & structure of Crocodile Creek Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon

Appearance shows a deep ruby core with hints of garnet at the rim, suggesting maturity and concentration. The density of color reflects a wine built on ripe fruit extraction and expressive varietal character.

Aroma to palate progression emphasizes dark fruit at first, then reveals secondary notes of cocoa, leather and subtle toasted spice. These secondary tones add depth and encourage further exploration by pairing with richer foods.

Tannins are present and textural, offering grip without overwhelming the fruit. They provide a framework that will tolerate richer sauces and fattier cuts of meat while preserving the wine's balance.

Finish is persistent with echoing notes of dark berry and spiced cocoa. The aftertaste carries a warming sensation that complements rustic cuisine and full-flavored cheeses.

Serving suggestion

Serve the wine slightly cooler than room temperature, around 17 °C, to bring forward aromatic lift and keep the tannins in check. This temperature helps reveal both fruit and spice without muting the wine's energy.

Allow the wine a few minutes in the glass so air exposure relaxes the tannins and opens the bouquet. Swirling gently releases secondary aromas, making the tasting experience more layered and expressive.

Choose medium to large glassware that allows aromas to accumulate while giving the palate space to assess structure and finish. A broader glass will emphasize plum and blackberry notes while also showcasing spice notes.

When tasting alongside food, match the wine with dishes that have rich flavors or charred edges to harmonize with the wine's roasted and spicy character. Acidic tomato sauces and umami-rich components will also highlight the wine's fruit and tannic balance.

Food pairings for this red wine

Beef stews and braised short ribs stand up well to the wine's tannic structure and dark fruit profile. Slow-cooked meat benefits from the wine's ability to cut through richness while echoing savory notes.

Grilled foods such as flame-kissed steaks, charred lamb chops and smoky sausages match the wine's peppery spice and toasted accents. The caramelized crust of grilled meat pairs especially well with cocoa and roasted spice elements.

Pizza and pasta with robust tomato sauces find a natural partner here, as the wine's acidity and dark fruit complement tomato sweetness and roasted garlic. Hearty pasta dishes with meat ragu or sausage work particularly well.

Pork dishes with caramelized glazes, peppery rubs or mushroom sauces will harmonize with the wine's mix of fruit and spice. The wine also stands up to slow-cooked stews and rustic casseroles that have depth of flavor.

Strong cheeses such as aged cheddar, manchego and hard alpine varieties complement the wine's savory and cocoa notes while soft blue cheeses offer a contrasting saltiness that highlights fruit intensity.

Conclusions and tasting context

Crocodile Creek Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon is a robust table wine that showcases the complementary traits of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia and South Africa. It is built around dark fruit, spicy lift and solid tannic architecture, making it a confident partner for rich cooking styles.

Its friendly aromatic profile and structured palate make it suitable for shared meals and fuller flavored dishes where the wine can play a balancing role. From 1001Spirits selection, buy red wine online from 1001Spirits when you want a dependable red that combines bold fruit expression with savory depth.

Enjoy the wine with torch-lit grills, oven-roasted stews and cheese boards that call for a wine with both muscle and aromatic interest. The overall impression is one of approachable intensity and reliable food compatibility, a wine that rewards both casual dinners and more deliberate tasting sessions.