Wine: Best bottles of Thorn Clarke

Some great value Australian winter reds from a family-owned producer with six generations of winemaking experience.

Thorn Clarke Sandpiper Barossa Shiraz - 2012

Any shiraz from Australia's Barossa Valley is guaranteed to storm the barricades of any palate. Big, rich and ripe but not aggressive, this has loads of berry fruit and spicy oak character with ripe plum and toasty, woody flavours matched with soft, round tannins. A savoury style perfect with chops, casseroles or a chunky piece of steak. This is a classic Barossa shiraz, don't hold back on the onions.

$19

Thorn Clarke Morello Nebbiolo - 2012

From grapes grown in the southern Barossa ranges where the long ripening periods and crisp cool nights are well suited to this much-loved Italian varietal. Very herby with distinctive displays of violets, cherries and plums and enough acidity to drink now or cellar for years. Perfect with pasta and great buying.

$20

Thorn Clarke Shotfire Barossa Quartage - 2012

The Shotfire range of wines immortalises the hazardous job of setting and lighting the charges in the mines - some of which were discovered back in 1870 by the family's ancestor, James Goddard. After shouting "fire's on", the shotfire would scamper quickly from the site taking shelter behind the nearest ridge. A traditional blend of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot and merlot, it is elegant with fruit forward flavours and spice. Great with hearty winter dishes - even roast chicken.

$25

All of the above wines are available to purchase online for a limited time at heraldwine.co.nz. Herald wine offers are powered by Glengarry and GrabOne Bottle.