Tait The Ball Buster Shiraz Merlot Cabernet

Made in the same full-on style that proprietor Bruno Tait has been pursuing since its first vintage in 2001, Tait’s The Ball Buster Proprietary Red is a blend of 77% Shiraz, 12% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Mint and baking spices lead the way, backed by a big mouthful of blackberries and black cherries. Full-bodied yet supple, it’s spicy and rich, with lingering notes of mixed berries and spice on the finish. Despite weighing in at 15.7% alcohol on the label, it doesn’t seem hot or overripe—an achievement in itself, but past vertical tastings suggest that this wine can develop nicely for a decade or more.