Give this wine a quick decanting prior to serving if you can, so that its lively cassis and floral components come to the fore. It’s a nicely concentrated wine for the price, with soft tannins framing classic Cab flavors of mint, cassis and chocolate. Drink now–2012.
— J.C.
(2/1/2008)
Water Wheel’s 2005 Shiraz is a full-bodied, creamy-textured effort filled with the scents and flavors of dark plums, vanilla and coffee. It’s delicious now, but should evolve through 2020, thanks to its concentrated fruit and ample tannins.
— J.C.
(12/15/2008)
Water Wheel wines consistently deliver quality and value. The winery’s 2007 Shiraz is made in a decadently supple, drink-now style with enough cocoa and mocha overtones to bring chocolate cake to mind. There’s some cedar and spice complexity as well. Drink now-2013.
— J.C.
(2/1/2010)
A drink-now style of Shiraz, with elevated alcohol to provide volume and texture alongside bold mint, cassis and vanilla flavors and plush tannins.
— J.C.
(11/1/2011)
Made in a mouthfilling, supple style, this cheerful blend is easy to like and easy on the pocketbook. Black cherry and vanilla notes are perhaps a little simple, but carried along by a rich, creamy mouthfeel and a lingering finish, they make for a satisfying glass of hearty red. Drink now-2014.
— J.C.
(2/1/2010)
Mainly Shiraz (87%), this is a meaty, savory and plummy red at a reasonable price. Hints of vanilla and cola impart additional complexity, while the mouthfeel is creamy, cushioned by ripe tannins. It drops off just a little on the finish, but it's still a very good drop for near-term consumption.
— J.C.
(11/1/2008)
Water Wheel's Memsie remains a very good example of the quality conscientious Australian producers can turn out at reasonable prices, blending four varieties into a plummy, cedary, earthy drink that's reasonably concentrated, balanced and harmonious.
— J.C.
(11/1/2009)
The palate has tropical and yellow fruit at the core, plus a powdery overlay akin to confectioner’s sugar. Still, it’s not as sweet as it sounds; woody tannins run from palate to finish. - D.M.
— D.T.
(6/1/2003)