A powerful yet finely tailored McLaren Vale icon, Savitar marries intensity with poise. Concentrated dark cherry, damson and blueberry meet savoury mineral notes, graphite-like tannins and subtle cedary oak. Elegant, long and linear, it carries Mitolo’s hallmark polish and an “elegantly long tail” — a formidable Shiraz for cellaring and luxurious gifting.
Tasting Notes & Experience
Deep and inky, with lifted aromas of dark cherry, plum and blue fruits layered over dried fig, chicory and cedar. The palate is sleek yet intense: ripe mulberry and damson glide on firm, fine-grained tannins with a graphite texture. Mineral drive and hints of coffee roast add complexity, leading to an impeccably long, savoury finish.
Key Details
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Winery: Mitolo Wines
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Grape: Shiraz
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Region: McLaren Vale, South Australia
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Vintage: 2020
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ABV: 14.5%
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Volume: 750ml
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Other: Icon Series; Low-yield vines; Estate-sourced fruit
Craftsmanship & Story
Named for a mythical dragon, Savitar is drawn from the Lopresti family vineyards near Port Willunga, where tiny berries and low yields deliver piercing intensity. Hand selection and precise maturation in fine oak shape a wine of stealthy power and purity, reflecting Mitolo’s Italian heritage of “forte e gentile” — strong and gentle.
Special Features
Fruit from prized blocks including the Chinese Block in McLaren Vale’s coastal belt brings mineral line, dark fruit potency and savoury nuance. The combination of concentrated berries, meticulous oak integration and a linear, graphite tannin frame creates an age-worthy Shiraz with a distinctive, elegant tail — true to its namesake.
Recognition & Accolades
Celebrated by leading critics across recent vintages:
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95/100 Points – Ken Gargett, Wine Pilot (2021 vintage)
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95/100 Points – Marcus Ellis, Halliday (2021 vintage)
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91/100 Points – Stuart Knox, The Wine Review (2021 vintage)
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Bronze – 2024 McLaren Vale Wine Show (2021 vintage)
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97/100 Points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (2018 vintage)
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95/100 Points – Ned Goodwin, Wine Companion (2018 vintage)
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95/100 Points – Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate (2018 vintage)
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93/100 Points – Angus Hughson, Wine Pilot (2018 vintage)
Such accolades underline Savitar’s status as a benchmark McLaren Vale Shiraz of power, precision and longevity.
Food Pairings
Rich and full-bodied, McLaren Vale Shiraz pairs beautifully with flame-grilled steak, roast lamb or smoky barbecue. The ripe dark fruit and spice complement aged cheddar, venison and charcuterie, while its velvety texture also works wonderfully with slow-cooked beef or spiced ribs for a truly indulgent match.
Perfect for Gifting or Sipping
A striking collector’s Shiraz with an elegant, age-worthy profile — ideal for anniversaries, milestone dinners and premium gift sets. Decant before serving to unfurl its layered fruit, mineral detail and seamless oak polish.
Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery
Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.