Beautiful deep ruby-purple in the glass. Medium intensity nose of spice and black cherry. Dry, medium-plus acidity, and mid tannins. Black fruits, pepper, and chocolate in the mouth, with a bite from the 14% alcohol. Medium length peppery-fruity, nicely complex—the Viognier mixes things up a bit; interesting. Overall good; recommended. $34 at Steamworks Wine Thief. See McLaren Vale.
Viognier
Petaluma 2006 Adelaide Hills Shiraz
Clear, medium ruby red appearance. Wonderful clean, medium intensity nose of sweet spices, mint, blackberry, and wood. Dry, medium acidity, easy tannins, and a light-plus body. The palate is dominated by blackberry and black and red cherry with tasteful oak. Medium length with a nice finish of evolving ripe fruits: there’s 4% Viognier here but I’m not sure I can detect it; there is a slight sweetness in the finish that could be attributed to the grape. 13.5% alcohol. A lovely drink; recommended.
$32.50 at Crosstown. See Petaluma Wines.