Winemaker Notes
While some Rascals probably earned their reputation by taking a swing at you, this one won't try and knock you over. Yes, it is rich; but it is not a "blockbuster". Instead, it has great balance between sheer weight and serious structure. The nose is completely consistent with the palate, which has flavours of plums, spice and a touch of earth; it's generous yet fine, with gently gritty tannins and length from time in those lovely French oak barrels. One articulate rascal, it speaks of its origins and variety – without shouting at you.
It's a great wine to accompany any full flavoured fare like Prime rib, Scotch fillet, veal medallions & Osso Bucco, foie gras, BBQ and demiglace meats, vintage Cheddar, hazelnuts and dark chocolate.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Full bodied, creamy in texture and densely concentrated, this is a chunky, Shiraz imbued with ample flavor intensity. Jammy, lifted cherry fruit easily carries accents of espresso and chocolate all the way through the finish. The price is right for a wine of this quality.
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.