Amicus is a winemaking venture set up by three friends including well known winemaker Walter Clappis, who is the only Australian winemaker to have won the prestigious Dan Murphy Trophy three times. It’s based in Mclaren Vale although they source all their grapes from their own vineyard in nearby Langhorne Creek which is managed biodynamically without pesticides or herbicides. The wines are only made in tiny amounts and are rather exclusive having already developed a cult status in Australia.

What’s it like? Where can I buy it?

Intense black fruits on the nose with intense blackberry fruit on the palate, and a hint of tobacco. Incredible length. This wine won the Mclaren Vale Wine Show Gold Medal which is up against some very stiff competition. It’s a superb wine but be warned, it’s a fruit driven style. If you prefer a more savoury style it will probably be too overpowering for you.

It’s difficult to find in the UK but www.goodwineonline.co.uk have  Amicus Reserve Shiraz 2004 Mclaren Vale available at £19.95