Excelsior Robertson Shiraz

- Serve slightly chilled (14-16°C) to enhance juicy fruit notes and smooth spice character ideal for warm evenings or casual gatherings.

- Present in large angular red wine glasses to capture aromas and allow gentle aeration; decant for 30 minutes to soften tannins and elevate complexity.

- Pair with spiced lamb sliders topped with minted yogurt and charred eggplant relish—a modern twist highlighting Shiraz’s peppery depth and fruit intensity.

- Try alongside a platter of smoked gouda roasted pepper tapenade on crostini and dark chocolate-dusted almonds to balance savory smoky and bitter elements complementing the wine’s profile.

- Create a red wine spritzer with sparkling water a splash of cherry liqueur and a fresh thyme sprig garnish for a refreshing lighter way to enjoy.

- Use as a marinade base for grilled wild mushrooms with garlic and rosemary served on toasted sourdough for a vegetarian delight that resonates with the wine’s earthiness.

- Ideal for festive autumn dinners—serve with slow-roasted beef brisket glazed with coffee and star anise alongside roasted root vegetables infused with smoked paprika for a memorable gourmet experience.

- For an unexpected dessert pairing try black pepper-spiced dark chocolate truffles or charred plum and ricotta tartlets matching the wine’s spicy and fruity elements artistically.

For optimal storage of red wine like a Shiraz follow these practical guidelines:

- Temperature: Maintain a consistent storage temperature between 60°F and 65°F (16°C to 19°C) ideal for full-bodied red wines. Avoid fluctuations as they can prematurely age or spoil the wine.

- Light Exposure: Store the wine in a dark place away from direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting to prevent degradation from UV rays.

- Sealing: Ensure the cork remains moist and intact to prevent air ingress. Proper humidity helps this (see below). For opened bottles reseal tightly using a wine stopper or vacuum pump to minimize oxygen exposure.

- Bottle Position: Store bottles on their sides to keep the cork in contact with the wine maintaining cork moisture and preventing it from drying out or shrinking.

- Humidity: Keep ambient humidity around 50% to 70%. This prevents cork drying shrinkage and mold growth on labels. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed to control humidity levels.

- Special Tips for Red Wine:
- Avoid storing near heat sources or vibrations (e.g. appliances motors) that can disturb wine sediment and aging.
- If storing for long periods pick a cool dark and stable environment like a wine cellar or dedicated wine fridge.

For opened bottles refrigerate after re-corking and consume within 3-5 days to preserve quality. For unopened bottles the above conditions will help maintain optimal quality and allow the wine to mature gracefully over time.