A blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon that hit well with the pro’s yet I despised.  I guess I just don’t like overly worked Shiraz, Aussie style.  Structurally speaking, it had all the right components for an easy drinking reasonable wine.  Tannins, acidity and balance.  Overly oaky in my opinion- it was dark purple in the glass.  On the nose- very ripe black berry notes that revealed plummy jam and berry on the palate.  Like I said, not my style of over-extraction.  For me 2 stars and 84 points.  The pro’s gave it about 87 points.

When in doubt about a wine list, go with D’Arenberg.  Each bottling has the signature red sash across the label and I have never been let down- until yesterday.  This wine was just so plain and uninteresting I had to see what others were saying.  I am not alone.  It must be the vintage, because I usually see some good depth in this brand, usually well balanced and flavorful.  I got some red raspberry out of the nose, but not much transcending the palate.  Very little tannic structure leave me to wonder about the long term viability of this vintage.  A true disappointment, but I haven’t given up on the brand.  Like I said, a go-to-wine when confused about a wine list.  2 stars and 85 points.  Boo hoo…..