Boasts plenty of buttery tropical fruit set off by aromas of toast and smoke, then shines in the mouth, where the mouthfeel is custardy but not heavy and the fruit flavors shine. Finishes long and tart, seamlessly turning citrusy along the way.
— J.C.
(7/1/2002)
Tar and charcoal emerge from the dark, deep nose, which is also oaky and mildly lemony. This wine is from Western Australia, and it runs toward the rich, ripe and syrupy side. The finish is quite smooth and lush, as it verges on creamy. All in all this offers the right mix of barrels and berries. And it seems fresh, not heavy. —M.S.
— M.S.
(3/1/2003)
A blend of 65% Cabernet, 20% Cab Franc and 15% Merlot, this takes a while to unwind. Black pepper-coated plums fill the palate, and chalky, oaky tannins finish it off. Give it another year or two in the bottle—more surprises will probably emerge.
— W.E.
(10/1/2003)
This Shiraz offers wonderful purity of fruit, ranging from blueberries to raspberries, just touched with hints of cracked pepper, cinnamon and toast. Atypically structured for a wine under $20, this medium-bodied example of Margaret River Shiraz should drink well from 2013-2023.
— J.C.
(2/1/2010)
This features plenty of lush fruit—apples and citrus—and palate weight, but it stays on the restrained side, kept in check by crisp acids and a slightly toasty framework. Drink now–2011.
— J.C.
(6/1/2008)
Margaret River wines are known for their finesse rather than their weight. This Merlot holds true, showing a well-balanced mouthfeel with flavors of fleshy black cherries and spicy toasted oak. The finish moves toward tart cherry, ending with an elegant softness.
— C.S.
(6/1/2002)
An all-round crowd-pleaser, with honest upfront notes of plum, coconut and fall leaves that take on a cherry character in the mouth. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a mouthwatering finish that’s just this side of medium. Try with roast pork. Drink up in the next year or two.
— W.E.
(12/31/2009)
All Margaret River fruit, and spends 18 months in barrique. There’s a nostril-permeating, menthol-white pepper aroma on the nose, with cream and earth underneath. Palate has very nice, ripe plum and blackberry fruit and a little herb for good measure. Finishes dry, with more white pepper.
— W.E.
(10/1/2003)