The Vintage Shoppe

G'day mate! This week it is all RED, all the time as we explore red wines from Southern Australia.

2012 is considered a tremendous vintage in Australia and the most notable wines are already sold out. We will taste three 2012 Shiraz along with a 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon from Padthaway $34. The first and second Shiraz are from McLaren Vale; the sparkling version is $20 and perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, and the full-bodied, 2012 Flegenheimer Shiraz is impressive for $30. We will conclude with this week’s focus wine: 2012 Bishop by Ben Glaetzer from the Barossa Valley.

Ca'Momi Rosso Di Napa

Year: 2011; Country: United States; Region: Napa Valley. Ca’Momi Rosso di Napa is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Zinfandel that has rich strawberry, raspberry and mocha flavors with a velvety texture and full mouth feel. It is round and soft with a complex palate that is loaded with fruit. Sells for $18 at winery and elsewhere.

Since bursting onto the scene more than a decade ago, The Bishop by Ben Glaetzer has been a benchmark for premium Shiraz.

Through sheer quality and amazing value for money, the new release more than justifies this illustrious status. It’s a true expression of what made Barossa Shiraz world famous. Produced from vines between 35 and 125 years old and from a vintage that will go down as one of the greats, this wine will reward both early drinking and careful cellaring. An optimum quality wine, with lashings of ripe velvety fruit, and structured elegantly through the clever use of new and old French oak barrels.