Salena Estate Ink Series Petit Verdot Shiraz 2006

'Petit' by name but not by nature! The rare Petit Verdot grape causes excitement wherever it goes - in-the-know drinkers prize it for giving a big, mouthfilling red that can outdo Shiraz for rich, peppery, bramble flavours.

And the fabulous Ink Series - the perfect name for something so lipstaining - does not disappoint. Discovered on a visit to Australia's Salena Estate - an award-winning, family-run winery - the wine is made by acknowledged masters of Petit Verdot.

So called because of its small berries, the grape is used by top Bordeaux châteaux to add spice and complexity to their Grand Vins, but thrives on its own Down Under thanks to the long, sunny conditions.

Inky dark with intense aromas of smoky cassis and blackberry and a mouthfilling richness of spicy black fruits and soft vanilla oak. Terrific partner for a Sunday roast.