*Rubus (Shiraz)

Name: Rubus
Variety: Shiraz
Region: Barossa
Country: Australia
Year: 2010
Price: $12.99

Winery review:  A blend of 98% Shiraz and 2% Viognier, this richly concentrated Barossa Shiraz is indicative of the style for which Australia's top production region is famous. The wine is dark in color, rich and dense. There are ample tannins balanced by the powerful fruit. You will note the hints of blackberries, mint, and eucalyptus flavors upfront and in the finish.


My review:  Very dark, purple color.  Smells fruity -- like a dark grape juice with a hint of raspberry.  Also detect a hint of a bubble gum scent.  Tastes very smooth and balanced.  Rather full-bodied.  An appropriate level of tannins and a hint of dryness -- but overall very sweet. Tastes very similar to last night's Louis Martini -- perhaps a bit sweeter and smoother though.


I also tasted this with food.  A fried chicken meal:


Brings out a creamier texture in the wine and cancels most of the dryness.  Not sure if this was the best pairing, but both items individually are excellent so I figured... why not?