Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Deep garnet-brick colored, the 2005 Carnival of Love displays a more earthy, meaty, gamey character with plenty of coffee and damp loam aromas fused with smoked bacon, some iron ore, Chinese plums, a little floral note and even a bit of truffles character coming through. It is very rich and full-bodied, with the acid line standing out a little from the very concentrated and quite evolved fruit core. Still, it has amazing layers and a lot to give on the very long, licorice-laced finish, even if just a bit warm.
-
Jeb Dunnuck
Simply a full bodied, milkshake styled wine that while amazingly rich and balanced, definitely requires you to be in the mood for this style of wine to enjoy it, The nose is supercharged with black raspberry, blueberry, buttered popcorn, coffee and vanilla notes that struggle to stay even close to the glass. The palate is full bodied with a thick, creamy texture, very sweet fruit and amazing balance for something of this size. If you like the wine, the finish is extremely long and enjoyable. If you don’t like it, than it’s going to linger too long.
-
Wine Spectator
Brims with personality, playing its toasty, roasted wheat berry and dusky spice flavors against a vital core of dark, juicy blackberry, plum and cherry fruit. The finish just doesn't quit, with the tannins wrapping it all firmly but gently. Best from 2008 through 2016. 2,894 cases made.
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.