Dandelion Vineyards, `Lion's Tooth of McLaren Vale` Shiraz/Riesling 2022
Product Information
Country Australia
Region McLaren Vale
Grape Variety 94% Shiraz, 6% Riesling
Vintage 2022
ABV 14%
Dandelion Vineyards Lion’s Tooth of McLaren Vale Shiraz/Riesling 2022 is an individual expression of one of Australia’s most celebrated red-wine regions. Rather than following a conventional McLaren Vale Shiraz formula, winemaker Elena Brooks combines Shiraz with approximately 6% Riesling, creating a red wine with generous dark fruit, fine tannins, aromatic perfume and refreshing acidity.
The result is a premium Australian Shiraz to buy online in the UK when you want something with both richness and energy. Blackberry, blueberry and plum provide the fruit core, while pepper, violet, spice and subtle savoury notes add complexity.
The 2022 Lion’s Tooth stands out for its combination of concentration, freshness and balance. The Riesling component contributes lift and acidity rather than making the wine taste like a white wine, allowing the Shiraz fruit to remain firmly at the centre.
Compared with richer, more powerful expressions from warmer seasons, this vintage has an appealing sense of definition and vitality. It also differs from the 2021 release, which received 90 points from Tom Cannavan and was noted for its kirsch-like fruit, floral character and juicy acidity. The 2022 vintage has attracted even stronger critical recognition, making it a particularly compelling vintage to buy
The wine is made using hand-harvested fruit and whole-bunch fermentation, with the Shiraz fermented over Riesling skins. It is matured in French oak before being bottled without fining or filtration, preserving texture and character.
2022 Lion’s Tooth Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep crimson to dark purple with youthful violet highlights.
Nose: Blackberry and blueberry mingle with plum, violet, pepper, star anise and subtle roasted-nut characters. Riesling brings an aromatic lift and freshness that distinguishes the wine from classic McLaren Vale Shiraz.
Palate: Rich and expressive, with dark cherry, black and blue berries, spice and savoury complexity. Fine-grained tannins provide structure while bright acidity keeps the palate energetic and balanced.
Finish: Long, vibrant and savoury, with lingering dark fruit, spice, gentle oak and a refreshing mineral lift.
Wine Critics’ Scores – 2022 Vintage
The 2022 vintage has received excellent reviews from Australian wine critics:
94 points – Sam Kim, Wine Orbit: praised for black and blueberry fruit, violet, star anise and pepper spice, with rich fruit intensity and fine-grained tannins.
94 points – Ray Jordan, Winepilot: highlighted spicy cherry and plum, a grainy, chalky texture, firm tannins and vibrant freshness.
93 points – Halliday Wine Companion: noted the 94/6 Shiraz/Riesling blend, bright acidity and flavours including blue and black berries, bay laurel, olive and anise.
These scores make the 2022 Lion’s Tooth a standout vintage for collectors and adventurous Australian wine drinkers.
Food Pairing: What to Serve with Lion’s Tooth
The combination of Shiraz richness and Riesling freshness makes this a versatile food wine.
Try it with:
• Chargrilled ribeye or pepper-crusted steak
• Slow-cooked lamb shoulder
• BBQ beef brisket
• Venison and other game
• Wild mushroom risotto
• Smoky aubergine and roasted vegetable dishes
• Mature Cheddar and other hard cheeses
• Serve at around 16–18°C and allow the wine a little time in the glass to reveal its aromatic complexity.
Why Buy Lion’s Tooth of McLaren Vale Shiraz/Riesling 2022?
If you want to buy Australian Shiraz online in the UK but are looking for something beyond a conventional full-bodied red, Lion’s Tooth offers a compelling alternative.
The unusual Shiraz-Riesling combination, McLaren Vale fruit, fine tannins and excellent 2022 critic scores make it suitable for dinner parties, serious wine collections or simply exploring distinctive Australian wines.
Elena Brooks is the founder and winemaker behind Dandelion Vineyards and has been recognised as one of Australia’s leading winemakers. Dandelion Vineyards was also named New World Producer of the Year at the 2020 Sommelier Wine Awards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Lion’s Tooth a Shiraz or Riesling?
A. It is primarily Shiraz, blended with approximately 6% Riesling. The Riesling contributes freshness, aromatic lift and acidity while the Shiraz provides the wine’s dark-fruited character and structure.
Q. Is the 2022 Lion’s Tooth good for ageing?
A. Yes. Its fruit concentration, acidity and tannic structure give the 2022 vintage cellaring potential when stored in suitable conditions.
Q. What does Lion’s Tooth taste like?
A. Expect blackberry, blueberry, plum, dark cherry, violet, pepper, spice and savoury notes, supported by fresh acidity and fine tannins.
Q. Where is Dandelion Vineyards Lion’s Tooth made?
A. The wine comes from McLaren Vale in South Australia, a region internationally renowned for premium Shiraz.
