Unicorn Wines: Australia vs America
It’s the battle of the mythical wine regions to find which is the unicorn! This month, it’s Yeti versus Yowie! The two titans of tannins, the masters of maceration: In a …
Australia
Wynns 2013 “Black Label” Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra
If you think of wine like art or architecture, this is one of those wines on the “Must Taste” list. It’s historically relevant to the origin of modern winemaking in Australia; it …
Massena 2012 The Moonlight Run, Barossa Valley
One of the greatest bottles of GSM (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvedre, the classic Rhone blend) is coming out of Australia these days. Massena is really putting in the overtime with this one.It has the …
d’Arenberg 2015 The Hermit Crab McLaren Vale
There is a long history of French influence on Aussie winemakers. This blend of Viognier and Marsanne is a paean to the classic white wines of the Rhone Valley. The name …
Chateau Saint Jean 2010 Chardonnay, Belle Terre Vineyard
This is an American classic Chardonnay. Imagine a big ole’ honey bear of wine, dressed up in a tuxedo but passed out on a feather bed.Golden and glossy in the glass, it …
Nugan Estate 2012 “Third Generation” Shiraz, South Eastern Australia
Eight years ago, a juice company from Australia contacted me. They were moving into the wine market, and we’re working on distribution into the US. Could I help them?Sure, I said. …
Craiglee 2007 Shiraz, Victoria
Australian wine reviewThe cooler climate of Victoria often delivers Shiraz with more complexity and a lighter framework than other South Australian regions. This bottle is a wonderful example of that style.Its dark …
Rutherglen Estates 2008 Burgoyne’s Block
Australian Wine Review Deeply hued with aromas of fresh berries and currants. Secondary scents of caramelized fat and savory herbs are amazing. Rich tannin softens in the glass but keeps a firm …
Coopers Best Extra Stout
Export Stout ReviewJust as dark and scented as a freshly pulled espresso. A full-bodied stout with rich milk chocolate on the palate. Strands of smoky molasses and saltwater taffy develop on …
Philadelphia Inquirer: Wine in a box
The story was originally published by the Philadelphia Inquirer on August 25, 2008. The article is reprinted solely for educational purposes. It is intended to offer insight into the history of …
Craiglee 2007 Shiraz, Victoria
Cooler climate Shiraz are often the greatest and finest of all Australian wines. This bottle sports aromas of beef jerky, wood smoke, and white pepper arrive first. A touch of reductive …
Pillar Box 2008 Red
For a wine so damn cheap, a lot of rock star winemakers have been attached to this project. For the geeks, that means Aussie powerhouses Kim Jackson and Chris Ringland, for starters. For the rest …
Penley 2010 “Phoenix” Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra
A classic style of Cabernet Sauvignon, without the overblown fruit and alcohol. Fresh blackberry and strawberry on the nose, along with a hint of cedar.Linear tannins soften in the midpalate, allowing flavors …
Argyle 2007 Riesling, Willamette
A Riesling review from Epikur Magazine. The Argyle Riesling is a fun bottle of wine with just enough juicy white fruit to balance out the racy elements. A bit of ozone and salinity come into play in the midpalate. The floral and mineral components are mostly in the long and pleasant. finish. .A very nice bottle of wine, especially for the summertime.
Viognier Review: Angoves 2009 Nine Vines from Australia
A Viognier review from Epikur Magazine. Hands down, this is the bargain sipper of the moment. Angoves is one of the oldest wineries in Australia, dating back to 1892, and is still family owned. The “Nine Vines” label is their value line.