Shiraz is the king grape in Australia, accounting for about 40 percent of the country’s harvest.

Yellow Tail is a prominent purveyor of entry-level shiraz, but we were curious how a more upscale version would taste.
Winemaker John Casella hand-selects parcels for this reserve wine, combining the

warm-climate

vineyards that bring out the sweetness in shiraz with the cooler-

climate vineyards that enhance the wine’s spice.

This is a rich, round wine that pours inky dark and displays ripe berry aromas with spice fragrance. The year of French oak aging gives it full body with finely tuned tannins. This is definitely a step up from the entry-level shiraz.

Sherry: “Bold, black cherry and licorice with a light touch of chocolate.” 3 stars

Chris: “Cherry, blackberry and pepper finishes with a chocolate kiss.” 3-1/2 stars

Available locally for about $9.

Coming next week: Tormaresca Neprica

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