Three Australian Shiraz

[wondersofwine]

(Posted also on another forum)
I couldn't find my notes on the first one so it is extra brief.

2003 Henry's Drive Shiraz

I generally prefer Henry's Drive Cabernet Sauvignon over the Shiraz. This was listed as 16% alcohol and was dark purple and opaque in the glass. I believe I remember it as having some cassis and dark berries on the nose and palate.

2003 Dog Ridge DV7 Shiraz, McLaren Vale, Australia

Usually about $35 at Carolina Wine Company but currently on sale for about $30. Stelvin cap.
15% alcohol. Saturated purple color, opaque. Viscous--leaves legs on the side of the glass.
On the palate reveals purple and black fruits and a little chocolate or hot cocoa. Some oak tannins noticeable. Doesn't show much of a spice component--some faint pepper on the finish. Tastes a bit hot from the alcohol. Mellows a bit on the third day. Juicy, but alcohol still making an appearance; oak fading a bit. Overall, by the third day I found this more attractive than the Henry's Drive Shiraz. I probably should have decanted it the first day. A fair match with steak fajita.

2000 LJ Shiraz, Jones Vineyard, Rutherglen, Australia

14% alcohol by volume The percentage of alcohol went down with each of the three wines and the wines tasted progressively better (IMHO).
color: purple-black density: opaque nose: dark fruits taste: blueberry and blackberry
Lengthy finish with some tannins. Might complement barbequed beef.
Some similarities in the Dog Ridge and LJ Shiraz wines but the LJ with 1% less alcohol (and a three more years in bottle) seems a bit smoother and has a longer finish. Recommended.





[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 02-01-2006).]