Archive: Australia: Shiraz & Blends
Annie’s Lane 2002 Shiraz Clare Valley ($13). Deep scarlet color and heady with violet-scented black currant. Medium- to full-bodied plum and blackberry fruit picks up dark chocolate, anise and a touch of toasty oak. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 12/04)
Archetype Vineyards
2004 Shiraz Barossa ($15). Lush blueberry and red berry fruit is laced with smoky oak, coffee and vanilla notes. Smooth, easy finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 06/06)
2004 Cabernet-Shiraz Barossa ($15). Blackberry and plum flavors are smooth and ripe, with hints of dark chocolate and warm, spicy oak that linger on the moderate finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 06/06)
2004 Shiraz Barossa Old Vine Reserve ($35). Deep, rich blackberry, plum and blueberry fruit is layered with pretty, exotic spices, roasted coffee and toasty vanilla. A mouthful of flavors that linger on a long finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 06/06)
Barossa Valley Estate
2005 Shiraz Barossa Valley E Minor ($13). Aromatic red fruit flavors include red currant and berry, with plenty of smoky tobacco and spice accents, with moderate length on the finish. Works better with food than on its own — think juicy burgers or steaks! Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. (Weekend Wine 08/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2000 Shiraz Australia ($10). Jammy, concentrated, bursting with ripe red cherry and berry fruit, with a slight smoky character on the finish. Easy to drink now! (Weekend Wine, 04/03)
1998 Shiraz Barossa Valley Ebenezer ($32). From powerhouse Barossa Valley Estate comes this “second label” — same great winemaking, lower price. Deep and dark, with concentrated black plum and cassis fruit, beautiful texture, and peppery, vanillin oak accents. Lush, lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 03/03)
1998 Shiraz Australia ($10). Amazing value price for this rightly constructed wine with concentrated currant, licorice, and pepper. Tannins are a bit firm at this stage, but should soften within just a year or two. Buy a case if you can, you’ll enjoy this one for years to come. (Robyn’s Picks, 11/00)
Bellarine Estate
2004 Shiraz Geelong Two Wives ($23). Riper than the 2003, with black pepper accents to the full-bodied, intensely colored black cherry and berry flavors, with layers of cigar box, baking spices and sweet vanilla through the lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 03/06)
2003 Shiraz Geelong Two Wives ($23). Roasted meat and white pepper aromas introduce focused red berry and currant flavors that stay focused and tightly wound through the moderate finish. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Weekend Wine 03/06)
Black Opal
2002 Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon South Eastern Australia ($8). Good! With a zesty black pepper kick accenting the ripe red currant and cherry fruit. Easy to drink and ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 02/05)
2001 Shiraz Barossa ($15). Black currant fruit is ripe and full-bodied, with meat, spice, earth and dark chocolate accents. Big and ripe, certainly, but with respectible complexity and depth of flavor. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
1998 Shiraz South-Eastern Australia ($11). Red currant, solid spice, a dash of black pepper, and subtle oak all add up to a solid and very enjoyable New World syrah. The unexpectedly long finish is a nice surprise. (eVineyard Picks, 09/00)
Black Swan
2004 Shiraz-Merlot South Eastern Australia ($9). Medium-bodied dark cherry and plum flavors are accented with black pepper and freshly cut herbs. A supple mouthful. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 10/05)
2003 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($8). A pretty little wine, with smooth blackberry and spicy oak flavors supported with racy acidity. Easy quaff and good with food. Heck of a deal! Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 04/05)
2002 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($8). Fruity, very subtle hints of herbal and spice notes, light to medium bodied, minimal pesky tannins to slow you down. Tasted remarkably similar to the Cabernet and the Merlot. We’re fairly sure that at some point during the evening, it all became more of a Black Swan Red Cuvee — with Shiraz splashed into a Merlot glass here, and a “which one of these was mine?” there. One way or another, they were all polished off with the greatest of ease. Any, all, or a combination of them would make a great red wine choice for a big crowd! (Weekend Wine, 08/03)
Brothers in Arms 2002 Shiraz Langhorne Creek ($36). Concentrated but elegant, with plum and black cherry fruit laced with dried fennel and a touch of eucalyptus. Long, fleshy finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-06-14)
Brown Brothers
2001 Shiraz Victoria ($13). Jammy and appealing, with deep, ripe plum and black cherry laced with nutmeg, black pepper and toasty oak. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine, 10/03)
2000 Shiraz Victoria Patricia Reserve ($33). Delicious overall package, with distinct white pepper and spice aromas and flavors mingling with ripe black currant and blueberry fruit. Finishes with smoky oak. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 04/04)
Capel Vale 2005 Shiraz Mount Barker Regional Series ($22). Concentrated and silky, with red cherry and berry fruit accented with pepper and spice, toast and vanilla that all fold together onto a smooth finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 04/08)
Chateau Reynella 2002 Shiraz McLaren Vale Basket Pressed ($28). Rich, spicy nose introduces pretty, supple black plum and currant fruit, with a healthy peppery kick throughout. Ripe without being jammy. Quite appealing. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (World Wide Wine 04/05)
Chateau Tanunda 2007 Shiraz Barossa Valley Grand Barossa ($19). A lot of wine for the money, with structure and balance. Offering intense, ripe black currant and berry flavors accented with aromatic brown spice, smoky oak and black pepper, with a lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 2-3 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-21)
Clarendon Hills
2004 Syrah Clarendon Bakers Gully ($65). Pretty, aromatic blackberry and raspberry fruit is delicately laced with sweet, smoky tobacco and mushroom notes. Supple tannins and a long, smooth finish. Ready to drink now and over the next seven or eight years. (Weekend Wine 04/07)
2004 Syrah Clarendon Liandra ($78). Concentrated, inky-purple, and rich — offering pretty blackberry, plum and floral aromas and flavors before picking up roasted meat and mint on the full-bodied finish. Decant to drink now; should age nicely for 10+ years. (Weekend Wine 04/07)
2004 Syrah Clarendon Moritz ($78). Rich and smooth, with aromatic, lush blueberry and black cherry fruit layered with smoky bacon, mushroom and white pepper. A nice balance between richness and elegance. Ready to drink now and over the next seven or eight years. (Weekend Wine 04/07)
2004 Syrah Clarendon Brookman ($100). Silky black fruits are the stars here — blackberry, black currant, dark plum. With licorice and warm baking spices emerging on the smooth, generous finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 10+ years. (Weekend Wine 04/07)
2004 Syrah Clarendon Hickinbotham ($100). Tightly wound red currant and berry fruit open up through the long, mouthwatering finish to reveal subtle touches of white pepper and roasted espresso. Stays focused and racy throughout. Very pretty. Ready to drink now and over the next 10+ years. (Weekend Wine 04/07)
2004 Syrah Clarendon Astralis ($325). Dense and very nearly mesmerizing, with silky, smoky cassis and blueberry fruit layered with truffle, vanilla bean, cedar and coffee notes that linger on the elegant, evolving finish. Tempting now (with a bit of decanting), but should age beautifully for 10+ years. (Weekend Wine 04/07)
2001 Syrah Clanendon Hickinbotham Vineyard ($70). Loads of cracked black pepper accents ripe cherry and blueberry flavors, finishing broadly, with tobacco and leather notes adding complexity. Ready to drink now and over the next 5-6 years. (Splurge Wine, 08/04)
Coriole Vineyards 1998 Redstone McLaren Vale ($18). Lush and smooth, this Shiraz blend is rich with ripe red fruit and touches of spice and earth. Wonderful finish. So versatile with food. (Robyn’s Picks, 02/01)
d’Arenberg
2007 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Footbolt ($19). Brawny and structured, with intense black currant and deep plum fruit accented with earth, eucalyptus and peppery spice, with chewy tannins throughout. Needs to breathe. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-21)1998 Shiraz Footbolt McLaren Vale ($17). This annual favorite is back with a wine that is solid and in-your-face, full of spicy cherry and peppery kick. Give it a couple of years to smooth out and then enjoy with grilled steak and barbecue. (Robyn’s Picks, 02/01)2005 Shiraz-Grenache McLaren Vale d’Arry’s Original ($19). Deep, rich, aromatic plum and berry flavors are laced with bittersweet chocolate, sweet cedar and earthy notes that linger on the generous finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-09-19)
2004 Shiraz Grenache McLaren Vale d’Arry’s Original ($19). Delicious and a heck of a deal, with racy red cherry and currant flavors laced with clove, bacon and toast. Finishes smooth and generous. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 10/06)
2004 The Stump Jump Red McLaren Vale ($10). Lush and pretty, with lipsmacking blueberry and red cherry fruit laced with floral, spicy and earthy accents. A blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre. A heck of a deal. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 07/05)
2003 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Footbolt ($19). Dense and cedary, with concentrated blackberry and black currant flavors accented with black pepper, dark chocolate, mint and black olive notes. Good length, with a rich finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 09/06)
2003 Shiraz-Viognier McLaren Vale The Laughing Magpie ($35). Enchanting aromatics include floral and peach, introducing voluptuous black cherry and berry fruit layered with anise and clove and toast. Pretty acidity throughout. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 07/05)
2003 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Dead Arm ($65). A “wow” wine — intense without being jammy, with beautiful black currant and blackberry flavors with warm spices, mushroom, white pepper and cigar box accents. Long, complex finish. Ready to drink now and over the next seven or eight years. (Weekend Wine 07/05)
2003 The Stump Jump Red McLaren Vale ($10). Clean, pure fruit flavors and aromas feature bright, sweet strawberry and raspberry, with a hit of white pepper on the pretty finish. Easy to drink — great value. A blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 03/05)
2002 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Footbolt ($19). Concentrated, aromatic red berry and currant fruit is layered with lush mocha, sweet tobacco, generous baking spices and a dash of earthy warmth. A nice value. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 06/05)
2002 d’Arry’s Original McLaren Vale ($18). Juicy and plummy, with excellent concentration, nice tannic structure and an interesting peppery note that lingers through the finish. A blend of Shiraz and Grenache. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (World Wide Wine 04/05)
2002 The Ironstone Pressings McLaren Vale ($65). Earthy blackberry and spice aromas introduce waves of licorice, white pepper, concentrated red currant and blackberry fruit. Ripe fruit is supported by firm tannic structure. Finishes with a wave of chocolate. Very nice. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (World Wide Wine 04/05)
2001 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Footbolt Old Vine ($18). Incredible bang for the buck here, with ripe, juicy black cherry and berry fruit laced with mouthwatering black licorice and warm spices. Stays focused through the lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 5-6 years. (Weekend Wine, 01/04)
($19). Delicious and a heck of a deal, with racy red cherry and currant flavors laced with clove, bacon and toast. Finishes smooth and generous. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 10/06)
2005 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Footbolt ($19). Healthy doses of briar and aromatic herbs give this wine a savory edge, with red plum and cranberry flavors accented with roasted coffee and cedar notes that linger on the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. This wine needs food — think grilled and roasted meats. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-09-19)
2006 Shiraz-Viognier Laughing Magpie ($29). Seems like this is always an appealing wine, with its smooth, aromatic cherry, blueberry, floral, licorice and spice notes that linger on the supple finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-09-19)
2006 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Love Grass ($19). Totally different than the Footbolt, this one is bright and racy, with medium-bodied red plum and berry fruit laced with savory tobacco, baking spices and toasty oak. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-21)
2006 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Dead Arm ($65). Ripe and perfumed, with red cherry and blueberry aromas and flavors that practically jump out of the glass. Accents include exotic spices, white pepper, tea leaves and a savory edge. Just a baby at this stage, but still tempting. Should age nicely over the next 10+ years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-09-19)
Deakin 2004 Shiraz Victoria ($9). Appealing everyday red from Australia, this offers medium-bodied red berry and currant flavors that pick up fresh mineral and lightly spicy notes on the finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 02/07)
Dominique Portet 2002 Shiraz Heathcote ($35). Big and bold, with leather and tobacco accents to the full-bodied red currant and plum fruit, picking up mint and anise notes on the lush, lingering finish. Very good now and over the next four or five years. (World Wide Wine 01/05)
Elderton
1999 Shiraz Barossa Command ($62). Dense and ripe, but maintains a sense of elegance, with black cherry fruit layered with mocha, smoke and sweet herbal notes. Lovely, long finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 8-10 years. (Weekend Wine, 01/04)
1997 Shiraz Barossa ($25). Juicy berry, coffee, fennel, and spice combine to make an exceptionally well-structured and balanced wine that continues to unfold on the finish. Wonderful now and for the next couple of years. (Robyn’s Picks, 11/00)
1995 Shiraz Barossa Command ($60). Lush and silky cherry, blackberry, toasted oak, and nutmeg run wild here. The finish will knock your socks off. Awfully good now, but this baby will cellar beautifully for the next six or seven years. (Robyn’s Picks, 11/00)
Forefathers
2003 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($22). Intense, spicy berry aromas introduce red plum and currant flavors, black pepper and baking spices. Finishes long and rich, with sweet vanillin oak. Good value here. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Weekend Wine 11/05)
2005 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($23). Supple black currant and blueberry fruit flavors pick up a light licorice note on the long, smooth, interesting finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-09-12)
Fox Creek 2002 Shiraz-Grenache McLaren Vale ($17). Very appealing, with warm spices that lace red currant and berry fruit, finishing with a delicious chocolate and anise burst of flavor. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (World Wide Wine 04/05)
The Gate 2001 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($37). Loved the fine acidity weaving through the focused red berry and cherry fruit, with warm anise and black pepper notes evolving on the generous finish. Very good now and over the next four or five years. (Wine Skinny Best 04/05)
Gemtree Vineyards
2007 Shiraz McLaren Vale Tadpole ($13). Outstanding value here, with ripe, lipsmacking blueberry and blackberry flavors that pick up touches of smoke and spices on the long, smooth finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-03-16)
Goundrey
2000 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($28). Textbook example of Aussie Shiraz, with waves of ripe red cherry, currant, white pepper, toasty oak, and generous vanillin oak. Blockbuster style — full-bodied and lush. Lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 03/03)
2003 Shiraz Western Australia Offspring ($15). Pretty aromatics and flavors include sweet red fruit and spice notes, with a long, toasty finish. Slurpably delish! Ready to drink now. (Winery Spotlight 10/05)
2002 Shiraz Western Australia Offspring ($15). A tasting favorite, with full-bodied black currant and blackberry flavors accented with aromatic white pepper and vanillin oak. Supple mouthfeel, with plenty of underlying tannic structure. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Wine Tasting 02/05)
Grant Burge
2005 Shiraz Barossa Vines ($15). Quite nice — very good Shiraz at this price point, with loads of flavor and personality — a good cheese party wine. Black cherry, baking spices and a kick of pepper some together on a ripe, lipsmacking finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Bargain Wine 10/07)
2004 Shiraz Barossa Barossa Vines ($14). Deep and full of ripe red and black berry and plum fruit and laced with black pepper that lingers on the moderate finish. Nicely balanced and easy to like. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 07/06)
2003 Shiraz Barossa Miamba ($19). Dense and focused, with dark cherry and blackberry fruit supported by smoky cedar, licorice and earth that linger on the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 09/06)
1998 Shiraz Barossa Vines ($15). Jammy red berry and cherry fruit are lively and appealing, with a touch of spice emerging on the finish. Versatile with food. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 08/01)
Green Point
2003 Shiraz Victoria ($16). A dose of Heathcote Shiraz blends into this complex, well-priced Shiraz from Victoria. Rich black cherry and berry fruit is accented with anise, sage and black pepper. A lot of wine for the money. Ready to drink know and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine 04/06)
2002 Shiraz Victoria ($18). Loved this wine – and a great value, too! Appealing whiff of fresh earth gives way to concentrated black currant and berry flavors, white pepper and anise. Balanced structure, with a generous, evolving finish. Very good now and should age beautifully for seven or eight years, or more! (World Wide Wine, 01/05)
Greg Norman Estates
2001 Shiraz Limestone Coast ($16). Ripe blackberry fruit is laced with vanilla oak, meat, and briar notes. Dry tannins. Tightly wound finish. Very nice! Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
2001 Shiraz Cabernet Limestone Coast ($16). Nicely integrated aromas and flavors include red cherry and plum fruit, licorice, toasty oak, and a dash of cinnamon. Supple mouthfeel. Nice! Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
2000 Shiraz Limestone Coast ($16). Spicy bouquet introduces bright red currant and plum skin flavors with an appealing herbal note coming up on the fruity finish. Ready to drink now and over the next year. (Richard’s Picks, 12/03)
1998 Shiraz McLaren Vale Reserve ($40). This wine is aging beautifully, with its rich black currant and berry fruit, layers of black licorice, black pepper and tobacco notes swirling and evolving. Beautifully integrated flavors. Finishes long and elegantly. A great example of a top tier Shiraz. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Richard’s Picks, 12/03)
1998 Shiraz Limestone Coast ($15) — Wonderful! Concentrated red currant and plum fruit, with healthy doses of pepper and nutmeg. Smooth and well-balanced, this wine is a winner now and will continue to improve over the next five years. Excellent value. (Weekend Wine, 11/00)
Hardys 1998 Shiraz South Australia Eileen Hardy ($75). Voluptuous and ripe, with waves of black cherry and berry fruit studded with mint, black pepper, leather and oak. Beautifully structured. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 06/03)
Henschke 1997 Shiraz-Cabernet-Merlot Barossa Keyneton Estate ($N/A). Spicy plum and black cherry, with touches of bright red raspberry and silky tannins, this is a very enjoyable wine. Tempting now, but probably better with a couple of years of bottle age. (Robyn’s Picks, 11/00)
Heritage Road 2001 Shiraz South Australia ($12). Concentrated cherry and plum fruit, with pretty toasted oak, smoke and herbal notes. Smooth and well-structured. Nice finish. Great value. Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. (Weekend Wine, 04/03)
Hill of Content 2001 Shiraz West Australia-South Australia ($13). Rich and nicely integrated, offering blackberry fruit, pie crust, vanilla and toasty oak. Smooth and easy to enjoy. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
Howard Park 2002 Shiraz Margaret River Leston ($30). Rich and opulent, with velvety finesse, featuring deep, spicy chocolate notes accenting concentrated cherry and black currant flavors. Finishes long and lush with subtle touches of eucalyptus and spicy, smoky vanillin oak. Ready to drink now and over the next three of four years. (Weekend Wine, 08/05)
Hugh Hamilton
2004 Shiraz McLaren Vale The Rascal ($22). Chocolate cordial aromas pick up more depth and spice on the palate. Lush black currant and blackberry fruit is nicely layered with cracked black pepper, clove and subtle, integrated toasty notes. An appealing, restrained, food-friendly style. Ready to drink now and over the next three of four years. (Weekend Wine 04/06)
2004 Shiraz Viognier McLaren Vale Jekyll and Hyde ($28). Plummy and exotic, with aromatic floral notes lacing ripe blackberry and juicy plum flavors, licorice, sweet tobacco and vanilla accents. Stays focused and elegant through the long finish. Hard to resist… and really, why bother? Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 04/06)
Innocent Bystander 2003 Shiraz-Viognier Central Victoria ($20). Lush, seductive bouquet includes peach and apricot and floral components that also weave through the chewy black currant and cherry flavors, along with cedar and smoke and cracked pepper. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 06/05)
Jacob’s Creek
2003 Shiraz South Australia Reserve ($13). Really delicious and one of the best deals in this article! With ripe black cherry and currant flavors accented with loads of cracked black pepper, licorice and cedar. Stays big and flavorful through the long finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Bargain Wine 10/06)
2003 Shiraz-Cabernet South Eastern Australia ($8). Easy-drinking stuff, with sweet, ripe red cherry and berry, vanilla and toasty oak. Finishes with all juicy fruit. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 08/05)
2003 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($9). Dried cherry and warm spice aromas and flavors. A dash of tartness helps balance the ripe character. Generous, focused finish, especially at this price point. Heck of a deal! Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
2002 Shiraz South Australia Reserve ($13). Spicy cherry and cola notes are ripe and juicy, finishing with dark chocolate and coffee accents. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 08/05)
2002 Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon South Eastern Australia ($8). Sweet red cherry and spice flavors finish with a bit of milk chocolate and vanilla oak. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
2001 Shiraz South Eastern Australia Reserve ($13). Pretty blackberry and sweet floral aromas lead to smooth blackberry fruit, milk chocolate and black licorice flavors. Lots of body and some dry tannins on finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
2001 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($10). Tasty and medium-bodied, with red berry and plum fruit, herbal notes, finishing with fine tannins. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 04/03)
2000 Shiraz Reserve South Australia ($14). Sweet red cherry and toasty oak bouquet leads to deep red cherry and currant fruit, spicy oak, licorice and black pepper notes, and a generous finish. Best of tasting! Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 04/03)
2000 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($10). Not crazy about this one – it had a cherry cough-medicine flavor that overwhelmed everything else. (Bargain Wine, 04/03)
1999 Shiraz-Cabernet Barossa-Coonawarra Limited Release ($50). Concentrated black currant and plum fruit is laced with chocolate, espresso and mint. Nice structure; should age well. Focused finish continues to evolve, picking up white pepper and more herbal notes. Very good now and over the next 5-6 years. (Splurge Wine, 08/04)
1998 Shiraz-Cabernet South Australia Limited Release ($50). Full-bodied and intense, with concentrated black currant and cherry fruit layered with deep milk chocolate and mint accents. Delicious overall package that is excellent now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
1998 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($9). This is a fun easy-drinking wine at a great price. Jammy plum and red cherry aromas and flavors are balanced with doses of white pepper and earthiness. We paired it with grilled salmon, twice-baked potatoes, and a green salad. The salmon had plenty of spicy seasoning going for it and was a surprisingly good match with the medium-bodied wine. (Weekend Wine, 10/00)
Jim Barry
2004 Shiraz Clare Valley The Lodge Hill ($17). This is the second “Lodge Hill” wine we’ve totally fallen for (the first was the Riesling). This is an elegant style, with bright black plum and berry flavors, delicate anise and pepper spices, a hint of vanilla and toast, and a long, mouthwatering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine 09/06)
2002 Shiraz Clare Valley The Lodge Hill ($15). Layered and complex, offering eucalyptus-laced red currant and cherry fruit, along with white pepper, mint and tobacco notes on the finish. Medium- to full-bodied, with an impressive lingering finish. Very good now and over the next couple of years. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
John Duval
2006 Shiraz Barossa Valley Entity ($40). Exuberant, rich blackberry and blueberry aromas and flavors are supported by fine grained tannins and accented with touches of baking spices, vanilla and toast. Long, ripe, but still fresh-tasting finish. Delicious now and over the next 6-8 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-10-10)
2005 Shiraz Barossa Eligo ($100) is outstanding if you can afford it, with its fragrant, supple blackberry jam and black cherry fruit playing off wet earth, meat and spice notes. Tannic structure stays in the background, and the finish is smooth and complex. Very nice now and over the next 10+ years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-10-01)
Kilikanoon
2007 Shiraz South Australia Killerman’s Run ($20). Really liked this, for its slick blackberry and blueberry fruit, and coffee, toast and vanilla accents. Long, plush finish stays bright, not heavy. Ready to drink now and over the next 4-5 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-01-05)
2006 Shiraz Barossa Valley Testament ($40). Earthier and more savory than the Covenant, so head this way for the same price if you like that kind of thing (like I do!). Black fruit — berry, cherry, plum, currant — with a long, treacle-laced, spicy finish and plenty of grip. Ready to drink now and over the next 5-6 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-01-05)
2006 Shiraz McLaren Vale M ($70). A nice array of aromas and flavors are layered here — mushroom, mint, blackberry, cherry, clove — all wound together and supported by impressive tannic structure. An iron fist in a velvet glove, with a long, evolving finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 5-6 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-01-05)
2005 Shiraz Clare Valley Covenant ($40). It’s easy to fall for this one, for its juicy, jammy blackberry, black currant and cherry character that stays mouthwateringly bright, not overdone. With pretty spice and tobacco notes through the complex finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 7-8 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-01-05)
1998 Siblings McLaren Vale-Clare Valley ($15). This is a Grenache-Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon blend from the makers of some of the best and most powerful Shiraz in Australia – their Oracles Shiraz. While the Oracles retails around $45, this Siblings is closer to $15. The 1998 vintage’s heady bouquet features jammy sweet fruit and a touch of spicy oak. These notes are repeated on the palate, including dark ripe plum, red cherry, and spicy vanilla. Smooth tannins. Lovely finish. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks, 02/02) Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-01-05)
Kirralaa 2001 Bush Vine Shiraz Coonawarra-Barossa-McClarenvale-Margaret River ($15). Full-bodied and flavored, but with a sense of elegance, this balanced Shiraz offers bright, concentrated red currant and cherry fruit with baking spices, black pepper, dark chocolate and minty notes. A lot of wine for the price. Lush, lingering finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Robyn’s Picks, 04/03) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Larry Cherubino 2005 Shiraz Frankland River Powderbark Vineyard The Yard ($40). Just a baby at this stage, with intense black currant, plum and blueberry fruit laced with developing dusty spices — cinnamon stick, freshly grated nutmeg — and touches of aromatic, savory white pepper and nut meats that linger on the tightly-wound finish. Tempting now but should age beautifully — at least five or six years. (Weekend Wine 04/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Layer Cake 2008 Shiraz South Australia ($15). Lush, lipsmacking black fruits, blueberry pie and intense dark chocolate pick up interesting smoke and pepper notes on the long finish. Slurpably delish. Hardly needs food, but works with grilled sausages or BBQ. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-09-21)
Leasingham 2001 Shiraz Clare Valley Bin 61 ($21). Very nice overall package featuring pretty black cherry and plum fruit laced with freshly cracked black pepper and vanilla oak. Lingers nicely. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 01/04) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Leeuwin Estate
2004 Shiraz Margaret River Siblings ($20) Balanced and appealing, with just enough meatiness and grip to the medium-bodied black currant and cherry fruit to keep things interesting. Touches of earth and white pepper emerge on the moderate finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-11-20)
2001 Shiraz Margaret River Art Series ($30). Smooth, with pretty plum and red currant flavors laced with warm spices and a touch of earth. Nothing overly ripe or jammy here. Finishes with touches of creamy vanilla and toasty oak. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 07/06) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Lindemans
2008 Shiraz South Eastern Australia Bin 50 ($7). Fresh and easy to like, this medium- to light-bodied Shiraz offers pretty red berry and tangy plum flavors with dashes of spice and vanilla on the moderate finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-05-26)
2002 Shiraz South Australia Reserve ($10). Very nice winemaking here – at a great price, with balanced blackberry and raspberry fruit mingling with herbal and vanilla oak notes. Appealingly smooth and with a lingering finish. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 04/05) Locate this wine online or in your area.
The Little Penguin
2006 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($8). Like a chocolate dipped berry, with bright red berry fruit, smooth milk chocolate and a tasty, vanilla-laced finish. Ready to drink now. (Wine Tasting 02/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2003 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($7). Heck of a deal on smooth, slurpable, ripe black cherry and blueberry flavors with a nice kick of spicy, toasty oak. Ready to drink now and particularly good with spicy barbecue! (Weekend Wine 02/05) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Longview 2005 Shiraz Adelaide Hills Yakka Vineyard ($20). Smooth plum and red berry aromas and flavors are laced with moderate spices and toasty vanilla. Juicy acidity on the finish makes it easy to like. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Splurge Wine 02/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
M. Chapoutier 2000 Shiraz Mount Benson ($32). New territory for a famous Rhone producer, this Shiraz is delicious, showing ripe red currant and plum fruit, accented with white pepper, tobacco and herbal notes. Lovely finish; pretty wine! Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine, 01/04) Locate this wine online or in your area.
MadFish 2003 Shiraz Western Australia ($12). Tasty! With ripe black plum and cherry fruit layered with freshly cracked black pepper and warm spices. Has a meaty character that is appealing. Finishes long and supple. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 08/05)
Majella 1998 Shiraz Coonawarra ($N/A). Good red fruit and a variety of spices give this wine good character and balance. Cinnamon and coffee notes are especially nice. Firm tannins linger on the finish. Good now and over the next five years. (Robyn’s Picks, 01/01)
McWilliam’s
2003 Shiraz South Eastern Australia Hanwood Estate ($11). Decent vibrancy and peppery kick to the red currant fruit. Medium bodied, moderate finish. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 04/05)
2002 Shiraz South Eastern Australia Hanwood Estate ($12). Tasty and appealing, with concentrated black cherry and currant fruit accented with loads of warm spices and smooth mocha notes. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine, 08/03)
1999 Shiraz Coonawarra Laira Vineyard ($25). Wonderfully heady bouquet leads to ripe black currant and plum fruit layered with licorice, white pepper, and espresso notes. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine, 06/03)
Mount Langi Ghiran 2003 Shiraz Victoria Billi Billi ($15). Great wine for the money, with cracked black pepper aromas and flavors lacing pretty red berry and plum fruit and judicious toasty oak. Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. (Weekend Wine 03/07)
Occam’s Razor 2004 Shiraz Heathcote ($38). Tightly wound, with concentrated black currant and blackberry fruit, loads of mineral notes, and touches of smoky white pepper, mint, cedar and clove. Long, focused finish. Delicious now and should age beautifully — easily eight to ten years. (Picks & Nibbles 11/07)
Off the Leash 2005 Shiraz Viognier Adelaide Hills Max ($25). Really lovely stuff, with pure fruit intensity — think purple plum, blackberry, blueberry — mingling with savory spices and licorice. Terrific length. Delicious now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 04/08)
Oliver’s Taranga 2001 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($45). Wonderful contrast between ripe, rich blackberry and black cherry fruit and smoky, earthy, tar accents. The two sides come together nicely in the generous finish. Nicely structured. Ready to drink now and over the next 4-5 years. (Splurge Wine, 08/04)
Penfolds
2007 Shiraz Cabernet South Australia Koonunga Hill ($12). Fragrant and rich, with loads of red berry aromas and flavors accented with chocolate, light peppery spice and a smooth, plummy, toasty finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-06-14)2002 Shiraz South Australia Magill Estate ($50). An array of luscious red berry flavors and aromas include strawberry, raspberry and red currant are layered with cedar, cigar box, cinnamon and other warm spices. Very nice acidity keeps things focused and lively. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Weekend Wine, 08/05)
2002 Shiraz Barossa Valley RWT ($70). Absolutely delicious, with velvety smooth ripe blueberry and blackberry fruit layered with pretty lavender, espresso, dark chocolate, cinnamon and anise. Beautifully integrated and structured, with a long, lush finish. So good now and over the next seven or eight years. (Weekend Wine, 08/05)
2001 Shiraz South Australia Magill Estate ($50). Medium-bodied but still offering good concentration, with meaty plum and red currant fruit accented with cedar, warm spices and a dash of vanilla. Focused finish. Very good now and over the next four or five years. (Splurge Wine 10/04)
2001 Shiraz Barossa Valley RWT ($80). Rich and elegant, with lovely plum, floral and anise aromas introducing deep blackberry and currant fruit laced with mocha and spicy vanillin oak. Silky, polished mouthfeel. Delicious now and over the next ten-plus years. (Splurge Wine 10/04)
2000 Shiraz South Australia St. Henri ($40). Firm and concentrated, with tightly wound blackberry and currant flavors integrated with tobacco, white pepper and bittersweet chocolate. Tempting now and should age beautifully over the next seven to ten years. (Splurge Wine 10/04)
2005 Shiraz South Eastern Australia Koonunga Hill
2005 Shiraz Adelaide Thomas Hyland ($15). Jammy dark blackberry and plum fruit is laced with aromatic cedar and spices, finishing with touches of sweet vanilla. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 02/08)
2005 Shiraz-Cabernet South Eastern Australia Koonunga Hill ($12). Pretty floral and black fruit aromas introduce medium-bodied blackberry and currant fruit with bittersweet chocolate and toasty vanilla notes. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 02/08)
2004 Shiraz Coonawarra Bin 128 ($23). Bright, aromatic red berry and cherry fruit is laced with mint, baking spices and a touch of black pepper, with a bit of grip on the long, mouthwatering finish. Nicely balanced. Appealing now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (Weekend Wine 07/07)
2004 Shiraz South Australia Kalimna Bin 28 ($23). Delicious, with roasted meat and aromatic, spicy dark chocolate accents to the plush blackberry and plum fruit. Long, supple finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (Weekend Wine 07/07)
2001 Shiraz South Australia St. Henri ($40). Aromatic rich chocolate and delicate florals make an appealing contrast in this full-bodied Shiraz, with loads of black currant and blueberry and plum fruit mingling with warm spices and licorice. Picks up blackberry jam on the long finish, along with toasty vanilla. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Weekend Wine, 08/05)
($12). Plump and juicy, with blueberry and plum flavors laced with warm baking spices, caramelized vanilla and a touch of racy black pepper. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 02/08)
2006 Shiraz Adelaide Thomas Hyland ($15). Nice depth at this price point, with deep, dark, aromatic plum and dried black cherry character, and generous baking spice and creamy vanilla accents on the slightly earthy finish. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-06-04)
1998 Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon Koonunga Hill ($10). The oohs and ahhhs began from the first pour until the final lick of the glass. This is a rich, full-bodied, well-textured red. The currants of the Shiraz and the berries of the Cab combine to make this wine a beautiful and remarkable bargain. We very much enjoyed with black pepper brie, dry salami, and pear on baguette. (Weekend Wine, 09/00)
1997 Shiraz Coonawarra Bin 128 ($22). Killer Shiraz here. Red and black berry. Raisin. Earth. Mint. Kicky black pepper. All these big flavors and equally firm tannins need some time. Buy some now and drink in about three years. Wonderful! (Robyn’s Picks, 01/01)
Peter Lehmann 1998 Clancy’s Barossa ($25). Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc are blended to make this generous, fruity wine. Black currant, plum, red cherry, and spicy oak flavors are backed up by smooth tannins and finish long and luxurious. Drink now and over the next eight to ten years. (Robyn’s Picks, 11/00)
Plantagenet 1999 Shiraz Mount Barker Estate ($28). Rich and big, but still showing some finesse, this Shiraz offers spicy red plum and concentrated red berry fruit, espresso and dark chocolate accents, and a peppery full finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine, 03/03)
Punt Road 2002 Shiraz Yarra Valley ($23). Rich cigar-box scented bouquet introduces dense, concentrated red currant and cherry fruit with a complex, integrated fruit-driven finish that lingers generously. Delicious now and over the next five years. (World Wide Wine 01/05)
Red Knot 2002 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($16). Light toasty oak supports vibrant, fresh strawberry and red cherry fruit that is laced with light spices and milk chocolate. Very easy to enjoy – bright and appealing. Great with food. Ready to drink now. (Winery Spotlight 04/05)
Redbank 2004 Shiraz Victoria The Long Paddock ($11). Smooth, medium-bodied blueberry and blackberry jam flavors are accented with baking spices and chocolate. Moderate finish. A nice wine for the price — and a good choice for backyard barbecues! Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (Weekend Wine 07/07)
Reynolds 2001 Shiraz New South Wales ($10). Black and red berry fruit is laced with toasty oak and white pepper notes. Finishes clean. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 04/03)
Robert Oatley 2007 Shiraz Mudgee ($20). Starts out with fleshy, ripe blueberry, then streamlines into a super-long, complex finish, picking up licorice, white pepper, black currant and mineral notes along the way. Appealing balance and quite food friendly. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-11-11)
RockBare 2004 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($17). Delicious for its silky red cherry and blueberry flavors, picking up anise, tobacco and vanilla through the generous, smooth finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 03/07) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Rolling 2004 Shiraz New South Wales ($13). A new venture from legendary Australian winemaker Philip Shaw, this is a bright, happy wine, with lipsmacking red cherry and berry fruit that stays juicy through the lively, toasty finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine 07/06) Locate this wine online or in your area.
Rosemount Estate
2002 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($12). Outstanding value on this lovely, medium-bodied Shiraz, with juicy blackberry and cherry fruit layered with soft black pepper and a light toasty oak note. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 01/04) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2000 Syrah McLaren Vale Balmoral ($50). Velvety smooth blackberry and plum fruit is laced with licorice, mint and smoke aromas and flavors. Elegant, complex finish. Good structure should age beautifully. Ready to drink now and over the next 6 years. (Splurge Wine, 08/04) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2000 Grenache-Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($8). Lip-smacking red raspberry and cherry fruit make this easy drinking and a great buy. Just a touch of spice lends interest and balance. Versatile with food. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 08/01) Locate this wine online or in your area.
1999 Shiraz ($15). Young and spunky but with a dark edge. Chock full of spice, plum, and currant and drinkable now, but would probably do particularly well with a few years of cellaring. (Weekend Wine, 09/00) Locate this wine online or in your area.
1995 Syrah McLaren Vale Balmoral ($40). This is a wine I’ve wanted to open for a while, and dinner with two of my favorite people was the perfect special occasion. When I first tasted this wine at the 1998 Boston Wine Expo, I could not believe how black, inky and thick it was. Three and a half years later, and it’s still a serious wine. It is velvety on the palate and explodes with flavor. It is dark and deep with blueberry, grape and herb, with subtle cinnamon and spice notes. (Weekend Wine, 08/01)
Ross Estate 2001 Shiraz Barossa Valley North Ridge ($15). Definitely the “best buy” of the tasting, with mouthwatering, ripe red cherry fruit layered with black licorice and dark chocolate and nicely integrated warm spices. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
Rothbury Estate
2001 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($7). Schlurpy yummy, with ripe black cherry, warm spices and toasty oak. Pairs nicely with sharp Cheddar. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine, 12/03)
1999 Shiraz Hunter Valley Brokenback ($30). A pretty package of smooth blackberry and blueberry fruit, with milk chocolate and anise coming alive on the finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
Shingleback 2002 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($26). Deep, heady bouquet introduces concentrated red berry and plum fruit along with mocha and sweet, bourbony-vanilla oak. Long, lush finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Winery Spotlight 04/05)
Shoofly 2005 Shiraz South Eastern Australia ($14). Nice cigar box aromas mingle with fleshy blackberry and cherry fruit, with a smooth, bright finish. Ready to drink now. (Wine Tasting 02/08)
St. Hallett
2001 Shiraz Barossa Faith ($20). Lush red cherry and blackberry jam fruit flavors pick up warm spices and light herbal notes. Smooth tannins, easy to enjoy. Ready to drink now and over the next 4-5 years. (Weekend Wine, 01/04)
2001 Shiraz South Australia Gamekeepers ($11). Jammy red cherry and berry fruit is smooth and accented with black pepper and toasty vanilla oak. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 04/03)
1996 Shiraz Barossa Blackwell ($24). Medium bodied, but with firm enough tannins and good structure, this wine features blackberry, plum, and integrated toasty oak. Very good now, and will probably improve over the next four or five years. (Robyn’s Picks, 11/00)
1996 Shiraz Barossa Old Block ($NA). Fruit forward and juicy, this latest vintage of the famous Old Block presents ripe blackberry and concentrated black currant with a wonderful chocolate note that emerges on the lush finish. Tempting now, but would benefit from at least two and up to eight years of cellaring. (Robyn’s Picks, 11/00)
Tait 2001 Shiraz Barossa Valley Basket Pressed ($27). Loads of body and structure, featuring concentrated, inky blackberry and black plum fruit, a hefty dose of funky earth, and loads of black pepper spiciness. Benefits from decanting now, drink over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
Taltarni
2005 Shiraz Heathcote ($32). Rich and intense, with aromatic blackberry and cherry jam fruit layered with dark chocolate, cracked black pepper and vanilla bean notes that stay focused through the bold, vibrant finish. Ready to drink now and over the next seven or eight years. (Weekend Wine 06/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2004 Shiraz Pyrenees ($22). Ripe, rich blueberry and blackberry aromas and flavors are laced with baking spices, earthy coffee bean and toasty vanilla — all lingering on a concentrated, full finish. Delicious now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 06/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2003 Cephas Pyrenees-Victoria ($40) is a Shiraz (81%)-Cabernet Sauvignon blend that offers seamless, balanced, supple blackberry and currant fruit character, with spice, vanilla, mint and smoke notes that linger on the supple finish. Lovely stuff. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-10-29)
2003 Shiraz Heathcote ($35). Seductively perfumed, with ripe red berry and plum, savory spices, and a touch of coconut-laced vanilla bean. Flavors include a balanced mix of raspberry and plum and cherry, cracked black pepper and chocolate, with a finish that goes on and on. Lovely, smooth, elegant. Ready to drink now and over the next ten years. (Weekend Wine 04/06)
Tapestry 1998 Shiraz Bin 338 McLaren Vale ($22). This is a well-structured wine, with ripe blackberry and red plum fruit, plenty of spicy zip, and integrated oak and tannins. Enjoy now and over the next three years or so. (Robyn’s Picks, 02/01)
Tatiarra 2003 Shiraz Heathcote Cambrian ($50). Big and concentrated, with intense red currant, raspberry, black pepper and dark chocolate flavors that linger on a focused finish. Integrated tannins and a mineral note grace the smooth mouthfeel. Ready to drink now and over the next ten-plus years. (Weekend Wine 04/06)
Tintara
2004 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($18). Pretty and fragrant, with heady allspice and chocolate aromas and flavors lacing lively black currant and berry fruit, picking up espresso through the bright finish. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. (Weekend Wine 09/06)
2002 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($18). Delicious, with lip-smacking blueberry, black currant and spice flavors that are rich and bright. Appealing white pepper kick on lengthy finish; nicely integrated oak. Great value. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (World Wide Wine 04/05)
2002 Shiraz McLaren Vale Reserve ($45). Loads of ripe blueberry and currant fruit are layered with generous spices — exotic and aromatic — ending with a white pepper accent. Aromatic, rich and delicious. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (World Wide Wine 04/05)
Torbreck
2006 Shiraz The Factor Barossa Valley ($115). Appealing touches of aromatic pepper and smoke accent ripe, smooth black cherry and berry fruit that stays focused and intense through the long finish, picking up savory roasted coffee and herbal notes along the way. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-29)
2006 Descendant Barossa Valley ($115). Shiraz cofermented with Viognier (8%), offering a “wow” nose — intense and elegant with a smoky sweetness accenting pretty blackberry and black currant fruit, with a slight savory accent on the mineral-laced, plummy finish. Very nice. Ready to drink now but should age beautifully over the next 7-10 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-07-29)
2006 Shiraz Barossa Valley Woodcutter’s ($20). Concentrated and rich, with exotic spices accenting smooth cherry and berry fruit that lingers on the lush finish. Ready to drink now. (Splurge Wine 02/08)
Two Hands
2008 Shiraz Barossa Valley Gnarly Dudes ($25). Juicy red and black berry fruit is the star here — starting juicy and fresh and then picking up more lush character through the finish. With accents of exotic, aromatic brown spices, deep chocolate and candied orange peel. Bright, smooth, delicious. Ready to drink now and over the next 4-5 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-04-09)
2007 Brave Faces Barossa Valley ($36). Ripe and supple, with floral- and spice-laced red berry and cherry fruit that picks up cinnamon stick, forest floor and mint and alcohol notes through the moderate finish. A blend of Shiraz (64%), Grenache (18%) and Mataro. Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-11-05)
2006 Shiraz McLaren Vale Angels Share ($30) is aromatic and lush, with anise, espresso, chocolate and toast accenting ripe blackberry and black cherry fruit. With a long, smooth, creamy finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 01/08) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2005 Shiraz Barossa Valley Gnarly Dudes ($34). Intense and tightly wound, with focused black currant, blueberry, spices and toast that linger on the generous finish. Decant now. Should continue to age nicely for five or six years. (Splurge Wine 06/07) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2007 Shiraz Barossa Valley Gnarly Dudes ($38). No foolin’ around, this is a big, rich wine. But it’s also balanced, with alcohol and oak levels that are in-line with the ripe fruit. Dark, intense blackberry and plum aromas and flavors are accented with loads of baking spices, bittersweet chocolate and smoke notes. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-04-17)
2007 Shiraz McLaren Vale Angel’s Share ($30). Exotic aromas and flavors include black cherry, smoke, Framboise, anise, cinnamon, eucalyptus and chocolate — a “wow” wine indeed. With finely integrated tannins and a lush, lingering, plummy finish. Ready to drink now and over the next five or six years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2008-11-05)
2005 Shiraz Barossa Valley Single Vineyard Bad Impersonator ($59). A spicy little number, with loads of black and red pepper, clove and anise supporting concentrated black plum and cherry fruit. Decant now. Should continue to age nicely for four or five years. (Splurge Wine 06/07) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2005 Shiraz Barossa Valley Bella’s Garden ($65). A “yowsa” wine, with full-bodied blackberry and black currant fruit accented with aromatic cedar, tobacco leaf, mineral and delicate spices that all linger on the persistent finish. This is a great example of the balance that Two Hands achieves – stays elegant from beginning to end. Ready to drink now and over the next eight or nine years. (Splurge Wine 06/07) Locate this wine online or in your area.
2005 Shiraz Clare Valley Samantha’s Garden ($65). Quite feminine, actually, with focused red cherry and berry flavors layered with touches of white pepper, anise, mineral and light toast notes that all fold together on a smooth, fleshy finish. Lovely now and over the next seven or eight years. (Splurge Wine 06/07)
2004 Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon Barossa Valley The Bull and the Bear ($59). Loved this wine – for its mouthfilling richness, pretty black currant and racy cherry fruit, aromatic cigar box, black olive and toasted vanilla notes, and generous, lingering finish. Really delicious. Ready to drink now and over the next six or seven years. (Splurge Wine 06/07)
2003 Shiraz Heathcote Max’s Garden ($55). Vibrant and full of plush red cherry and berry fruit, with layers of dark chocolate, tobacco, cedar and a rush of acidity that carries through the racy finish. An excellent food wine. Should age beautifully. Ready to drink now and over the next 8-10 years. (Weekend Wine 04/06)
Veritas 1997 Shiraz Barossa Valley Hanisch Vineyard ($50). Veritas wines are certainly achieving cult status, so expect all the things that go along with cult wines — higher prices, low production, limited distribution, hard to find. The upside? This is an outstanding wine. Velvety smooth and full of blackberry, currant, and spice, with a wonderful herbal edge that smoothes out on the lingering finish. Ready now and over the next three years. (Robyn’s Picks, 11/00)
Wildberry Estate 2004 Shiraz Margaret River ($17). Elegant and nicely structured, with bright acidity and fine tannins supporting blackberry and plum fruit, with touches of warm spices and toast mingling on the moderate finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 09/06)
Willow Bridge 2001 Shiraz Winemaker’s Reserve Western Australia ($20). Delicious black currant and ripe cherry fruit are layered with black pepper, cinnamon, espresso, and toasty oak. Lingering, concentrated finish. Ready to drink now and over the next four years. (Weekend Wine, 03/03)
Willow Bridge 2001 Shiraz The Black Dog Western Australia ($35). Deep, dark and concentrated, with loads of black currant, cassis, and ripe plum. Accents include smoke, clove and licorice. Fantastically big, bold wine. Very good now and over the next four years. (Weekend Wine, 03/03)
The Wishing Tree 2003 Shiraz Western Australia ($9). Pretty blackberry and cherry fruit is accented with lively spices and fresh mint. Excellent acidity keeps things interesting and evolving – also makes it particularly food-friendly. Excellent value! Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
Wolf Blass
2003 Shiraz South Australia Presidents Selection ($17). Intense, aromatic and focused red berry and cherry fruit are laced with black pepper and toast, with a rich, lengthy finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine, 08/05)
2002 Shiraz South Australia Yellow Label ($12). Deep, concentrated red berry and currant flavors are laced with aromatic black pepper and sweet, spicy oak. Shows nice balance and good bang for the buck. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine 04/05)
2002 Shiraz Barossa Gold Label ($24). Absolutely delicious — and a great value at this price. Supple and seductive, with ripe black currant and licorice aromas and flavors layered with exotic spices and smoky oak. Shows a lot of finesse. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 02/05)
2001 Shiraz Adelaide Hills Platinum Label ($72). Elegant but with some well-structured grip, this deeply colored and aromatic Shiraz is full of concentrated black currant and cherry fruit, with layers of black pepper, smooth mocha, and spicy cedar that are beautifully balanced. Long, smooth finish. A knockout wine. Tempting now and should age beautifully over the next ten years. (Weekend Wine 04/05)
2001 Shiraz South Australia ($11). Supple, lush berry fruit is layered with sweet oak, white pepper and rich spices. Appealing overall package and a good value. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 04/03)
Wyndham Estate
2003 Shiraz South Eastern Australia Bin 555 ($10). Ripe and fleshy, with cinnamon-laced black currant and cherry fruit. Finishes with a wave of vanilla oak. Easy to drink and a good price. Ready to drink now. (Bargain Wine 04/05)
2002 Shiraz Bin 555 South Eastern Australia ($10). Cherry and root beer aromas and flavors pick up sweet vanilla on the straightforward finish. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks 10/04)
2001 Shiraz Bin 555 South Eastern Australia ($10). Medium bodied, with ripe red plum and currant fruit taking center stage. Milk chocolate and vanilla oak threaten to overwhelm, but tasty black pepper and anise notes kick in on the finish. (Weekend Wine, 03/03)
1998 Shiraz South Eastern Australia Show Reserve ($24). Distinct sweet Concord grape jam character dominates, along with some spicy plum and sweet oak. Not a tasting favorite. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
1997 Shiraz South Eastern Australia Show Reserve ($24). Much preferred over the 1998 vintage, a more integrated overall package. Medium-bodied, with ripe black plum and berry fruit with interwoven spicy oak. Surprisingly versatile with food. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 02/04)
Wynns Coonawarra Estate 1998 Shiraz Coonawarra ($15). Wonderful spice and concentrated fruit, with rich berry, black currant, and white pepper notes framed on smooth tannins. Very good now and over the next couple of years. Will stand up nicely to hearty foods. (Robyn’s Picks, 01/01)
Xanadu
2002 Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon Frankland River-Margaret River ($10). Red cherry and wild red berry fruit with a slight jammy character. Briary, herbal hints on finish. Ready to drink now and over the next year or two. (Weekend Wine, 01/04)
2001 Shiraz Frankland River-Margaret River ($17). Opulent, lush black cherry accented with eucalyptus, warm spices, and vanilla oak. Long lingering finish. Evolves nicely. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. (Weekend Wine, 01/04)
Yalumba 2001 Shiraz South Australia Y ($10). Pretty blueberry and cherry fruit is laced with vanilla oak and herbal notes. Nice finish. Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine, 04/03)
Yangarra Estate Vineyard
2007 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($25). Concentrated black currant jam and blackberry flavors and aromas are sleek and pretty, and accented with loam, light eucalyptus and anise notes that linger on the supple finish. Nice balance here. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-11-16)
2005 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($20). Ripe, voluptuous and thick with fruit — blackberry, plum, blueberry — picking up complex spice and toast notes through the supple finish. Delish! Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Weekend Wine 09/07)
2002 Shiraz McLaren Vale ($25). Loved this wine, with its game and black pepper laced black currant fruit. Beautifully balanced, with a warm, lingering finish. Delicious now and over the next five or six years. (World Wide Wine 04/05)
Yellow Tail 2006 Shiraz South Eastern Australia The Reserve ($11). Seriously. This is tasty wine! With lush black cherry and berry flavors laced with slurpable chocolate and toasty spices. Ready to drink now. (Wine Tasting 02/08)
Yering Station 2002 Shiraz Viognier Yarra Valley Reserve ($50). A stunning example of beautifully balanced lush fruit vs. firm structure. With complex, exotic and aromatic blackberry and plum fruit laced with pretty clove and pepper spice. Firm tannins and acidity support a lingering, elegant finish. Very good now and over the next seven or eight years. (World Wide Wine 01/05)
Zonte’s Footstep 2007 Shiraz Viognier Langhorne Creek Single Site ($15). Aromatic, jammy blueberry and blackberry fruit offers loads of baking spice and a plush, supple finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2009-09-23)