Winter Wine Project: Red Knot Shiraz

I don't know what it is about this Winter Wine Project, but each time I write a new review the weather is at least 15 degrees colder. That's right folks, I'm writing my latest wine review while its a balmy 7 degrees outside. Sounds like perfect red wine drinking weather to me.

Surprisingly,  this is one of the firsts posts discussing wines made in Australia. But the Aussies can definitely hold there own when it comes to New World wine-making. Australia is the 4th largest exporter of wine. The key wine regions are located primarily in the south, including: South Australia, South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia. The major grape varietals grown here are Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Semillon, and Riesling. Wines are typically labeled by the grape varietal and the labeled grape must constitute  at least 85% of the blend.

A fun fact about Australia, GSM blends are very popular. GSM stands for a common red blend made of Grenache, Shiraz and  Mourvèdre. This blend was traditionally associated with Southern Rhône, including Châteauneuf-du-Pape.  The most famous label out of Australia (which I'm sure you have seen once or twice) is Penfolds Grange. Now let's get to the real wine review.

Red Knot Shiraz McLaren Vale Australia (2012)

Grapes: 92% Shiraz, 8% Grenache.

Where it's From: Southern Australia, grapes source from McLaren Vale Vineyard.

Alcohol: 14%

Winemaker's Notes: Deep magenta color. Aromas of black cherry, strawberry, milk chocolate with hints of roasted coffee and vanilla. The palate comprises of summer berries balanced with mild tannin and fresh acidity. Medium body.

My Thoughts:  This wine only gets better the more you allow it to breathe. I feel like a broken record, but I almost every red I drink definitely benefits from decanting. Initially, I thought this wine was off-balanced, but after decanting to really opened up. The berry fruit flavors became more prominent and it was very smooth. Definitely uncomplicated, but very drinkable. 

Until next time, Cheers!