Don’t fret wine lovers; I’ve also got some new choices for you. Summer may not be the season for big reds but I’m guilty of loving The Verdict Cabernet Sauvignon from Shinas Estate in Victoria, Australia. This is a high alcohol, fruit forward treasure made in small batches in Australia. George Shinas refuses to irrigate his vineyards which means that this wine is intensely concentrated with ripe black currant and plum. The tannins are big but polished and the mouth feel is absolutely silky. I grilled some porterhouse steaks the other day and I don’t know if I’ve ever had a wine that went so well with beef.