Wynns Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Mild green elements add a nice complexity to the cherry fruit. This is a light-bodied Cabernet with a complementary level of acidity. All Cabernet aged in new and used French and US oak. Winemaker Sue Hodder 13.5% $12.99 at K&L Wynns
Pirramimma McLaren Vale Petit Verdot 2003
This wine is quite refined, showing a silky side that we don’t often see with Petit Verdot. The oak is a nice complement. Grown, produced and bottled in McLaren Vale 14% $22 at Traverso’s Pirramimma
Craggy Range Hawkes Bay Gimblett Gravels Vineyard Te Kahu 2004
Unfortunately this bottle is oxidized and prematurely evolved. 77% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Malbec and 6% Cabernet Franc 14% $25.99 Craggy Range
Yalumba Coonawarra The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon 2002
Smells of cigar box, tobacco, light green pepper and a hint of pickle. In the mouth there is ample acidity which carries the juicy red flavors for a long time. Sourced from their Menzies Vineyard. Aged in French and US oak. Winemaker Peter Gambetta 14% $31.99 at Bottle Barn Yalumba
Small Gully Wines South Australia Ringbark Red 2001
This has the complexity of brown spices and raisins sprinkle with vanilla and a bit of brett earthiness. The same characteristics carry through on the palate with a supple feel and acidity as a frame. Sourced from Coonawarra and Clare Cabernet as well as a grape obviously not associated with Bordeaux but certainly an Australian favorite, Shiraz from the Barossa Valley. Aged in new and used French and US oak for 20 months. Produced by Joe and Stephen Black. 14% import sample