Friday, February 1, 2008

2004 Cape Mentelle Shiraz Margaret River

Last week I revisited Aussie Shiraz at the Aussie Wine Festival, (below). As mentioned a few stuck out as purchase worthy. Not that I ever need a reason to find a great wine that clocks in below $20.

I just had to try this one again, and I am glad I did. ($17.99). Dark color with some browning on the edges. Not alarming type of browning though. The nose had some great fresh vibrant dark fruits: cassis, blackberry, and boysenberry. There is a slight band-aid element that I won't quite call VA. It's actually quite intriguing and I am going to call it a fruit note. The mouth explodes with dark black plums, blackberries, and camphor. There is an element of purity that belies its price. A pure fruit forward and elegant wine. I love the notes of tobacco, dark coffee and tar. The tannins are spot on and the acid level is hovering over perfection. This is a wonderful Shiraz from Margaret River that has cool climate written all over it. Smooth, sweet, long and full of the wow factor. These are the qualities I look for to my Northern Rhone’s in the sub $50 region. Usually with not much luck.

If you have avoided Shiraz in the last year or so, like I have, you will be pleasantly surprised. Seek this one out. If you hate it I will purchase them from you. 92/100 (upgraded from 90)