The 2005 Hewitson “Ned & Henry’s” Shiraz Barossa Valley South Australia ($17.99), 92 points Robert Parker, has bright precise flavors of blackberry, meats, dark chocolate and a hint of earth. The balance is superb with fine tannins and a persistent finish. The 2005 Hewitson “Old Garden” Mourvèdre Barossa Valley South Australia ($34.99), 90 points Parker, is from a vineyard planted in 1853. These are some of the oldest vines of this variety on the planet! While matured in new French barriques, the wine is not “oaky.” Structure and spice frame the blueberry, spice cake, plum, truffles and dried orange peel.
The 2005 Schild Estate Shiraz Barossa Valley South Australia ($23.99) got 96 points from the Wine Spectator last year. The fruit comes from their Angus Brae vineyard, which is in the cooler south end of the valley. The long cool vintage of 2005 gives this wine fresh blackberry, black cherry, red licorice, cassis and bittersweet chocolate aromatics that jump from the glass. On the palate, there is good richness with a silky texture, a kiss of vanilla and fine balance and length.
The 2006 Lawson’s Dry Hills Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough New Zealand ($11.99) is sourced from seven different sites with changes in climate and soil types. In this vintage, 7% of the wine went through barrel fermentation to lend middle palate weight to the bright zesty flavors of lime, passion fruit, grapefruit and grassy notes. This refreshing wine is a perfect starter to perk up the palate or accompany any fish or spicy dish. Cheers! —Jimmy C