Australia
332. Heggies Vineyard, Viognier Eden Valley, 2005
Another different white from the Optimor case. I was particularly pleased because I guessed this as being barrel fermented, before looking at the label …
330. Kilikanoon, The Medley Barossa Valley Clare Valley, 2004
Another from the Optimor mixed case, and from a winery well-rated by Robert Parker. Initially, I thought this might be an overblown ‘taster’s’ wine …
311. d’Arenberg, Shiraz The Dead Arm McLaren Vale, 2003
Well, after the relative disappointment of the 2004, I had to crack its partner in crime, the 2003. MUCH more exciting! Much more savoury …
310. d’Arenberg, Shiraz The Dead Arm McLaren Vale, 2004
After a few years of vaguely looking out for this, to see if its reputation was justified, like buses, two turned up at once. …
284. Kangarilla Road, McLaren Vale Shiraz, 2003
Picked this up from Majestic whilst looking for some wines that could be opened and drunk straightaway, without sediment settling etc. A pleasant find. …
277. d’Arenberg, Shiraz The Footbolt McLaren Vale, 2003
Grabbed the bottle (and label) from Sadek Wynberg after a number of us finished it whilst watching a focus group… because it was another …
270. Leeuwin Estate, Chardonnay Art Series Margaret River, 2002
Even in Selfridges’ sale, this was expensive, and it felt like paying for the renown of one of (if not “the”) Australia’s finest Chardonnays. …
268. d’Arenberg, Shiraz Viognier The Laughing Magpie McLaren Vale, 2003
A pleasant drink but an advert for taking 0.5-1% off the ABV. Was browsing a wine shop in Kilkenny when I noticed a few …
264. Henschke, Keyneton Estate Euphonium Barossa, 2002
My first taste of Henschke, who are reputed to be one of Australia’s finest, and make one of Aus’ iconic wines. But I baulked …
242. d’Arenberg, Riesling The Noble McLaren Vale, 2000
Another wine courtesy of Steve Otterburn. I still haven’t had The Dead Arm Shiraz for which d’Arenberg is most renowned, but this is a …