Inland Empire Wine-Wines from The Land Down Under

Saturday October 4, 2008 … NapaCabs.com

∑ Australia is known for big, supple, mouth filling white and red wines,

many of which are terrific values.

∑ The most renowned and best loved red grape is shiraz, the same as the

French grape syrah which is turned into irresistible wines saturated

with deep berry flavors.

∑ The majority of Australia’s vineyards are clustered in the southeastern

part of the continent relatively near the major cities of Sydney,

Melbourne and Adelaide.

Cape Mentelle 2006 Chardonnay Margaret River $21.95

WS 90Pts - Bright and tangy, this is appealing for its array of pear, quince, and mineral flavors. Leaner and less opulent than other Margaret River Chardonnays, but tight and compact. A lively companion for seafood dishes.

Torbreck 2005 Marsanne/Roussanne Barossa Valley $24.95

The 2005 Marsanne/Roussanne is a luscious blend of rich, barrel fermented Marsanne (66%) and the more austere stainless steel fermented Roussanne (34%). On the nose, the wine exhibits concentrated fragrance of guava, nectarines and honey as well as hints of lush tropical fruits. These aromas are balanced by notes of lemon and lime and the mineral, flinty characteristics of the Roussanne.

Innocent Bystander 2007 Pinot Noir Yarra Valley $15.95

Tasting Notes - Lithe and spicy, this is delicate in texture, with red cherry and coffee notes mingling attractively on the fine-grained finish. Lingers well. Drink now through 2012.

Kurtz 2004 Seven Sleepers Barossa Valley $12.95

Cabernet Sauvignon (30%), Petite Verdot (20%), Shiraz (20%), Grenache (18%) and the balance; Cabernet Franc, Mataro and Malbec. A fruit driven wine that is dominated by the berry fruit characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Verdot. A layer of chocolate is gained from the addition of Shiraz and sweetness is apparent on the palate. This wine is not over powered by oak, allowing the fruit to show its full potential.

Henschke 2004 Barossa Johann's Garden $29.95

“GSM” – 69% Grenache / 12% Shiraz / 19% Mourverdre

IWC 91 Pts. - High-pitched, vibrant red berry fruit aromas complemented by bright floral accents and a hint of sweet mocha. Lush and silky, with explosive, almost sweet raspberry, cherry and strawberry liqueur flavors lifted by exotic baking spice notes and a subtle hint of vanilla. Rich in flavor but medium in weight, finishing with very fine tannins, repeating raspberry and kirsch flavors and a lingering sweetness.

Elderton 2005 Shiraz Barossa Estate $26.95

WA 94Pts - The 2005 Shiraz is purple/black with a brooding nose of smoke, tar, licorice, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. Full-bodied and voluptuous, it is dense and concentrated, with gobs of spicy black fruit flavors. It will evolve for 3-5 years and drink well through 2020.