A young (average age 5 years) tawny sourced from the Riverlands, this makes for a tasty and affordable after-dinner drink. There’s some berry fruit remaining, but also touches of honey, caramel and molasses. It’s very supple and smooth in the mouth, yet finishes on a slightly earthy or savory note, which keeps it from being cloying.
— J.C.
(2/1/2011)
A blend of Shiraz and Grenache, this dark-purple sparkler is a bit herbal and underripe tasting, with an herb-laced bouquet and hints of green pepper on the palate. But for all that, it’s not unpleasant, as there is adequate cassis fruit for balance and a crisp, reasonably fresh finish.
— J.C.
(12/31/2006)
A sparkling wine made of Shiraz and Grenache; very dark red-black in color. This wine is just too strange: The palate shows sweet fruit with a twist of balsamic vinegar. Smells like grape jelly and apple butter. Bizarre.
— D.T.
(12/31/2003)
Starts with some odd aromas of burnt rubber, charred plum and scorched marshmallow, then delivers slightly sweet, caramelly flavors. It’s thick and viscous in texture yet without much in the way of tannin.
— J.C.
(8/1/2009)