If you haven’t heard of McGuigan wines, The Plan might just change all of that. As one of the bestselling red wines in Australia, McGuigan is now bringing its newest line of wines, The Plan, to the US.
We had an opportunity to get a sneak preview of McGuigan wines at The Wine Daily, including The Plan. Here’s why we’re excited:
Standout Value
McGuigan wines defy the stereotype of highly jammy, overextracted Australian wines. Their value wine, The Plan, achieves balance and depth of flavor at just $11. Its layered aromatics go beyond the dark fruit typical of Australian red wines to include earth, savory herbs, floral, and spice. Their icon wine, Hand Made Shiraz, shows the freshness and vibrancy that Australian Shiraz from the cooler Langhorne Creek region can attain.
Versatility
Both The Plan and Hand Made have the ability to fit many occasions and uses. They bear all the hallmarks of a crowd-pleaser: enough body and richness to compliment a meal, but not too dry to be consumed alone. And while a core of dark fruit makes the red wines ready to drink now, refreshing acidity and firm tannins turn them into ageworthy candidates for the cellar.
Sustainability
McGuigan derives 11% of its total energy from solar sources, uses water conservation practices such as dry farming, and recently reduced its carbon emissions by 1,200 units. So, you can rest assured that while you’re not buying into a small local winemaker, you are still making an environmentally-conscious purchase.
A Closer Look at The Wines
The Plan 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon
This is a cab that drinks like a red blend. Juicy and approachable, it paired wonderfully with slow-roasted beef brisket, but was also easygoing enough to be enjoyed on its own. Unlike many other value Cabs, it delivers an initial hit of savory herbs, mint, and cocoa, followed by dark fruit — black cherry, cranberry, blackberry. There are some tertiary hints of warm spice and woodsy earthiness that make it quite interesting. The Plan Cabernet was partially aged in stainless steel, so those looking for an oaky cab should go elsewhere. However, for an easygoing wine for a backyard barbecue or weeknight dinner, The Plan’s Cabernet Sauvignon is a safe bet.
The Plan 2016 Chardonnay
This is a Chardonnay you can count on. For its modest $11 price tag, it manages to walk the tightrope of balance— bringing tropical and floral aromatics, lemony acidity, and a creamy palate together in one bottle. It’s the perfect addition to picnics or a beach trip.
McGuigan 2014 Hand Made Shiraz
This is the star of the McGuigan wine portfolio. The Hand Made Shiraz ($40) is crafted from the cool, Mediterranean climate of Langhorne Creek, giving it a bright acidity not typically seen in Australian Shiraz. It has a vibrant core of dark fruit, notes of warm earth and mushroom, and a hint of black olive and mint. Firm yet polished tannins create a rich, powerful wine. While it’s lovely now, this is clearly a Shiraz that will shine even more in 5 years.
To learn more about McGuigan wines or find The Plan near you, visit mcguiganwines.com.au. To note, The Plan is still rolling out in the US, so expect to see it in the coming months.