What’s wine got to do with cricket?

“This one could use some celery,” my friend shouted in my ear over the din. I laughed. “Haha, good one!” We were indulging in a lively wine tasting and taking the piss out of extravagant wine label descriptions. But she wasn’t joking that time—she said the wine needed cellaring.

That was over 20 years ago. Imagine my surprise when I first detected a distinct cherry flavour in a glass of red. I am now proud to discern woody French oak, the heady spiciness and mouth-watering chocolate flavours of a luxurious Barossa shiraz or the cool earthiness of a tiddly pinot.

Spoiled for choice, my husband and I live within an hour’s drive of three South Australian wine regions dotted with hundreds of wineries that boast some of Australia’s finest—and some hidden gems. Dog Ridge, tucked away in McLaren Vale, is our latest discovery.

It’s not Penfolds. But it humbly offers gumtree-adorned Australian countryside replete with friendly locals, dogs and fresh produce. Not only does the tin shed cellar door display colourful local artwork, the wine list features some extraordinarily creative wine descriptions; which made for an entertaining afternoon relaxing amongst trees at umbrella topped tables perched on green grass.

There’s something for everyone. Cricket fans won’t be disappointed with the ‘All-Rounder’ Grenache. “All-rounders stand apart from the specialists. They are flexible and reliable, showing great spontaneity and skill in all positions. They play for the team and can doggedly save the day or fill any gap; when singled out they may not dazzle but can shine as bright as any star.” Are we talking cricket or wine? Who cares—we get it.