d'Arenberg, The Laughing Magpie Shiraz Viognier, McLaren Vale

Nice full bodied red..

What an odd blend. Started out astringent but opened up to pepper and old world character. Not my favorite but not bad either.

Rich plum pudding on the nose. Little dry, earthy, fruits not as pronounced on the palette. Good length.

Big and tasty

Big wine, inky black with a nose of black pepper, blackberries, blueberries, rosemary, eucalyptus, all very elegant. Just balanced enough right now, though I think a few more years will help. Medium body, moderately strong tannin, acidity just barely enough to balance the tannin, which is still a bit rough. Dark fruits and herbs carry on in the palate, moderate finish just a touch hot. Very good with rich meat and potatoes type food. I don’t drink much AU wine. …

Harsh

Deep purple in colour. On the nose, it is developing with medium (+) intensity of perfumed violets, redcurrants, blackberries, plums, pepper. The wine is dry, full body, medium (+) acidity, medium (+) tannins, high alcohol, medium (+) flavour intensity of juicy red fruits, blackberries, plums. Finish is medium (+). Wine is good, smooth and my favorite of the Artisans. Good QPR.

I was nervous as to how the ‘12 would pair up to the ‘13 - white spiced nose, baked plum, green undergrowth. Luscious palate, a little muddled at this moment but will develop. Black currant, chocolate, tobacco, black cherry. Just as good as the ‘12 or slightly under - time will tell.

d'Arenberg Cellar Door : Very pretty nose of dark fruit and dried fruit. Medium body, chewy tannin. Short, slightly bitter finish. Ok-good. [6% Viognier.]