Smallwater Estate Cabernet Shiraz 2025

Tasting Notes 

Colour: Deep crimson red with dark ruby tones.

Aromatics: Blackcurrant, blackberry and plum, with hints of dark cherry, pepper, dried herbs, cocoa and subtle oak spice.

Palate: Smooth and medium to full-bodied, with Cabernet giving cassis, structure and a fine tannin line, while Shiraz fills out the middle with plum, dark berry fruit and a touch of spice. The result is balanced, generous and very food-friendly.

Finish: Dry and savoury, with lingering blackcurrant, plum, spice and polished tannins.

About the Blend

Cabernet Shiraz is one of Australia’s great red wine blends. Cabernet Sauvignon gives the wine its frame: blackcurrant, tannin, freshness and length. Shiraz brings the generosity: ripe plum, dark fruit, spice and a softer mouthfeel.

The result is a red that has both flavour and shape. It is richer than a straight Cabernet, but more structured than many Shiraz styles. That makes it a brilliant all-rounder for people who want one bottle that can handle a wide range of meals.

Wine Details

Producer: Smallwater Estate
Wine: Cabernet 50%, Shiraz 50%
Region: Donnybrook, Geographe, Western Australia
Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz
Style: Dry red wine
Body: Medium to full-bodied
Closure: Screw cap

Serving and Cellaring

Serve: 16 to 18°C

If the bottle has been sitting at warm room temperature, place it in the fridge for around 15 minutes before serving. This helps keep the dark fruit fresh and the tannins smooth.

Decant: Not essential, but 20 to 30 minutes in a decanter or large glass will help the fruit and spice open up.

Cellaring: Enjoy now, or cellar for three to five years if you prefer a softer, more savoury red.

Food Pairing Suggestions 

• Chargrilled steak with pepper sauce
• Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic
• Barbecue ribs, burgers or sausages
• Slow-cooked beef ragu
• Beef and mushroom pie
• Woodfired pizza with salami, olives or mushrooms
• Aged cheddar, manchego or Comté

FAQ 🧐

What does Cabernet Shiraz taste like?
Cabernet Shiraz usually combines blackcurrant, blackberry and savoury tannin from Cabernet with plum, spice and dark fruit from Shiraz.

Is this wine full-bodied?
It sits in the medium to full-bodied range. It has plenty of flavour, but the blend keeps it smooth and approachable.

Is it sweet?
No. This is a dry red wine. The ripe plum and berry flavours give it generosity, but the finish is dry and savoury.

Who will enjoy this wine?
It is a great choice for drinkers who enjoy Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Merlot or classic Australian red blends.

What food does it go with?
It is very versatile. Steak, lamb, barbecue meats, roast dinners, burgers, pizza, pasta and hard cheeses all work beautifully.