Australian Shiraz wine tasting. A serious one. – Episode #81

August 29, 2006

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Little Penguin Shiraz

Amaroo Shiraz

Teal Lake Shiraz

2003 Jacobs Creek Reserve Shiraz

2003 Peter Lehmann Shiraz

2004 Two Hands Bad Impersonator Shiraz

2004 Massena 11th Hour Shiraz

2003 Langmeil Freedom Shiraz

Today Gary tackles it hard, he tastes 8 different Australian Shiraz wines and talks about the wine world and many other fun topics. Watch as Gary tackles wine cellars, wine storage, heat affects on wine, wine racks, wine gift baskets, wine clubs, wine making, wine glasses, wine bars, wine refrigerators, strawberry wine, and other wine topics….oh wait no he’s just doing Shiraz.

121 Responses

  1. August 29, 2006

    Mike S.

    First??

  2. August 29, 2006

    lizv

    2nd?!!!

  3. August 29, 2006

    lizv

    of course even w/’inside info’ i still couldn’t make it to the #1 spot, way to go mike s!

  4. August 29, 2006

    AJV

    Top 5

  5. August 29, 2006

    Susan

    Gary,
    Great Episode!
    Serious episode? why? I think your energetic approach is GREAT:)
    Keep up the good work!

  6. August 29, 2006

    Mike S.

    Interesting episode today, Gary. I was glad to see something devoted entirely Australian shiraz (my second favorite wine after Burgundy). Next time, how about comparing wines made by Ben Glaetzer and Ben Riggs, arguably the two finest winemakers in Australia right now? You’ve already done the Amon-Ra by Glaetzer (which is now a favorite of mine thanks to your previous episode), but the two of them are making some really good stuff and there are a number of world class wines coming from Oz.

  7. August 29, 2006

    Mike S.

    Thanks, lizv!! Pure, blind, dumb luck. :)

  8. August 29, 2006

    Dan

    All Right!

    The Texans play the Jets on November 26th! The weather will be perfect for shipping to Houston then.

    Tell you what, I will buy a case even if the Texans lose! (Texans lose??? No Way!)

    Great, long episode, by the way.

    Cheers,

    Dan (In Houston)

  9. August 29, 2006

    Mitch

    Gary, do you think if I lined up that $75 bottle of Langmeil Freedom with a bottle of the new Sparky Marquis Mollydooker at $20 and served ‘em blind you could pick ‘em apart? What if I threw in a third bottle of blueberry pancake syrup with grain spirits and a splash of rosewater mixed in? OK, but seriously, who really wants to spend that kind of money ($75) on a bottle of wine where with each successive glass your interest goes down, your palate becomes fatigued, and you’re drunk? My understanding is that most of these monster shirazes are specifically tailored for the American export market and that most Aussies want nothing to do with them.

  10. August 29, 2006

    Rick E

    Gary, loved the 8-bottle format. I half-expected you to walk away when I saw all those bottles (a’la “the prank” episode), but luckily you stayed put. Also liked the longer running time.

    And more importantly, I just marked 9/17 and 11/12 on my calendar, when the Pats play the Jets. Expect coupon code “punk-ass” on a several case order right around then.

    As always, great job.

  11. August 29, 2006

    ChrisR

    Great ep. I’ve never been a big fan of Aussie Shiraz. I find most of them to be medicinal. Clarendon Hills is the only Aussie red that’s ever blown me away but at $70 a bottle, it should.

    I didn’t like that Barossa Shiraz either at first but after some significant time open the heat settled down and nice plum, cherry and cocoa emerge. Not a fantasic wine, but above average.

    I’m voting again for the Katherine Kennedy Lateral for you to taste tomorrow.

  12. August 29, 2006

    Susan

    Gary-
    To be fair…
    You have not tasted any of the wines I ask specifically for you to taste.
    Please taste the Mas De Daumas Gassac Red 2003.
    Thanks:)

  13. August 29, 2006

    Adam

    Hey Gary,
    I would love to see you taste a bottle of Bogle “phantom”.
    What about those of us who live in city’s that don’t have football teams? How about some free shipping for us everytime the Jets loose? Oh wait, that would probably put you out of business with the next 16 weeks coming up. Just think of it as a rebuilding decade.
    Here is my QOD: Any big plans for the 100th episode? Anything special for those of us who have been watching since the beginning?
    Adam

  14. August 29, 2006

    StanVH

    Wow! You had a run of bad wines today.

    Are all these available at WL? I often wonder how some wines actually get into a store. Do you (or some other staff person) try all the wines before stocking? Or jsut some of them? Or are some just pushed on you by the distributor? Can you give us a little insight as to how wines get selectd for your (anybody’s) store?

    If you don’t want to reveal any trade secrets, I’ll understand.

    Thanks for your forthright reviews.

  15. August 29, 2006

    cgf

    Gary-
    great episode. Don’t forget about an update on the bad impersonator. DO you think tasting the corked wine put you off to the subsequent wines?

    QOD: 2003 Almaviva.

  16. August 29, 2006

    Matty Van

    GV… from watching this episode it looked line the little penguin and the armaroo you would score higher than the mid-range $15-$30 priced bottles, is this true??? or do you adjust your ratings against the price of the bottle.

    GV – how about throwing a NY ice wine in with your canadian wines when you the the ice wine EP

    GV – I live in rochester,ny right next to buffalo and I am a bills fan, is rochester close enough to buffalo (50 miles away) to qualify for the free shipping???? if yes I will be ordering a case after each game if the bills were to win.

    QOD – GV use my vote to pick what you would want to taste, the sheeps should not lead the shepard, if I were to pick a wine and you were to pick a wine…I trust your judgment over mine.

  17. August 29, 2006

    Rich S

    I actually am a huge fan of Australian shiraz so to me, this episode rocked! I usually go with The Lucky Country by Two Hands for an everyday drinker but haven’t really tried any “premium” shiraz thus far. I do actually have a bottle of Elderton Reserve Shiraz that was supposedly rated very highly but since it is a 2002, I am planning on holding onto it for a little longer since the cellaring will probably do it some good.

    Gary, have you ever tried any shiraz from Elderton? If so, how do you think it would stack up against the ones you tasted? I would love to know…………..Thanks!

  18. August 29, 2006

    TimF

    I can’t stand the Bears but now I’m going to have to root for them against the Jets since I’m in Chicago. Ugh.

    I’d like to see you taste the 2004 Etude Pinot Noir. An entire episode on Carneros Pinots would be pretty cool…

    Oh yeah, almost forgot, another great episode…

  19. August 29, 2006

    gregkeller

    Gary,
    I love the shows, how about a tasting of wines perfect for a labor day picnic. I imagine a lot of us will be going out to a few BBQ’s and the such, so taste through some wines to give us an idea of what to serve or what to bring along. Another question of topic, when are the super tasting tickets going to go on sale, and any ideas on the dates of the super tasting? I loved this event last year, it was awesome. Also will you be doing a tasting class one of the nights of the ST like you did last year? Thanks and keep up the good work, we all really appreciate it.

  20. August 29, 2006

    Tony

    Gary, your server is really doggin’ it today. Very slow. I’m watching like 30 seconds at a time because it can’t keep up!

  21. August 29, 2006

    garyv

    Tony so many more people are watching WLTV I am so sorry I will get this fixed as soon as I can!

  22. August 29, 2006

    Jason R.

    Tony – Same with me – Took me 2 glasses of 2001 Grand Moulinet Pomerol to watch this episode – Not the worst thing though – just a little slow getting dinner going.

    Gary – Bv Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 – I have several that I bought @ Target of all places for 10 bucks!!! Steal for this if it is anything like I have had in past. If your taste is not on the Cali Cabs – I WOULD LOVE YOU EVEN MORE OF YOU WOULD POP THE Chateau Marquis D`alesme Becker 2003. I have a boat load of the 2000 that I picked up in LA on a closeout – Have never had it and am quite excited to know if I should stock up on 2003 (WS-91)????

  23. August 29, 2006

    Tony S.

    Nice BIG episode there Gary. Aussie wines are hit and miss with me. I do love those big fruit bombs, but like you said, some of them are pretty much like fruit juice with alcohol. Have you ever had the J.J. Hahn “Nineteen Twenty Eight” Shiraz (specifically the 2001)…freakin’ awesome. Great balance and structure with a lot of the fruit bomb thing going on.

    TimF: You live in Chicago and you can’t stand da Bears!?!?!?! What the heck? You gotta come by my place, pick up some wine, I’ll school you on the Bears and you can become a real fan, and then (and ONLY then) you should take advantage of the free shipping from Gary after the Bears annihilate the Jets. I’m just joking…you don’t HAVE to love the Bears, no wait…you do. Let me guess, I bet you put ketchup on your hot dogs too? Sacreligeous.

    Alright Gary, for the QOTD, I want you to re-taste the white zinfandel you had like 10-15 episodes again….just cause it’s funny to watch people drink white zinfandel.

    OK…see you later,
    GO BEARS!
    T

  24. August 29, 2006

    JW

    Gary -

    Good stuff, you know it is a good episode when it is about a wine (Aussie Shiraz) that you have no interest and it can still hold your interest.

    QOD – My vote is for you tasting the ‘03 Almaviva and the ‘04 Etude Pinot (both of which I see were already suggested…those would have been my suggestion anyway).

    I bought a number of bottles of the ‘03 Almaviva after seeing Parker’s comments. We had one of them, and it showed alot of potential, but think it might have been early. If I am right, that would give you a chance to explain “shut down” to everyone. I put the rest of mine away.

    On the ‘04 Etude Pinot, I have been a fan of Etude and have had several bottles of the ‘01-’03, and am wondering what is in store for ‘04. You could potentially save me or cost me alot of money.

    Thanks.

  25. August 29, 2006

    Gene Mishkevich

    Gary, why is the banner at the beginning of the episode showing episode #88???

  26. August 29, 2006

    johnb

    gary,

    i think it would be a great idea if, for one of your shows, instead of pouring out the wine you drank it. that way by the end of the tasting we will get to see what the buzzed gary is like. i bring this up because i think it would be a great way for us to feel like were out with our pal gary having some drinks, that and i just saw beerfest.

  27. August 29, 2006

    mike

    Gary,

    I would love to see you try the Palmina Mattia 2004. I think the blend is very interesting and I am a big fan of some of the Ital-Cal reds.
    Thanks,
    Mike

  28. August 29, 2006

    BruceP

    Nice Show as always. QOD: 2003 The Foundry Syrah from South Africa. Loved the 01 I had while in Cape Town. Keep up the good work. Looking forward to the New Year’s free shipping after the Raiders beat the Jets on New Year’s Eve!

    Cheers

  29. August 29, 2006

    Tony

    Wow, Gary, thanks for the update!! I can’t wait!! I’m so excited I think I just peed myself!!!

    But seriously, Gary, I think I peed myself!!!

    Probably the best wine I’ve bought from you is the 2001 Guigal CdP. Even though you’ve been spot on so far in every wine I’ve tasted, I’d love your take on the Guigal. I’m totally impressed every time I open a bottle of this (I think I’ve placed three different orders with you for this wine). I’d really appreciate your tasting notes. Also, I can’t help myself from drinking all the bottles of the Guigal I get, but am I committing a sin here? Should I be holding on to this wine? If so, for how long?

    Other than that, I’d love to see a Bordeaux vs. Napa cult cab episode. Many of us are poor (or at least can’t afford $50-100+ bottles of wine). And even though we want to buy the best bargains (like the Little Penquin), we also want to live vicariously through someone like you and watch you spit out $130 Napa cab.

    BTW, I totally agree on the Jacob’s Creek. It came highly recommended to me, and I thought it was a hollow, empty, souless, tasteless wine. Zero fruit or style. Basically, nothing but oak and tannin. No midpalette anywhere to be found.

    As always, keep up the incredible work, and keep me updated on the heat episode!!!

    P.S. Don’t think I didn’t notice that you reworded my quote to exclude the “wine phases” (aka “close down”) episode. You’re not going to get off that easy. There are very clearly two episodes on my “nag Gary” list, and – as you know – I’m not about to let you forget it. I recommend that you get used to it. ;-)

  30. August 29, 2006

    John Holmes

    Hey Gary,

    Great episode! I think that many people, especially newcomers to the wine scene, are becoming fans of Aussie style Shiraz, although I agree that it is true that some of the wines can go a little too far when it comes to residual sugar and extraction. Although I don’t always like my wines to be so in-your-face, it can be fun to drink them sometimes. Are you a fan of Jim Barry’s The Armagh. It is quite extracted and rich, but I find it to be delicate and complex at the same time. I have thoroughly enjoyed the ‘00, ‘01, and ‘02 Armagh. In fact, I think it is probably my favorite Oz Shiraz, with Amon-Ra trailing close behind. I’m also a huge fan of the Glaetzer Godolphin Shiraz/Cab blend. I wish WineLibrary carried it.

    Well, as far as wines that I would like for you to taste, I have quite a list……many wines that I have either already purchased, would like to purchase, or wines that I have tasted, but would like to hear your opinion on so that I may compare and calibrate my palate and scoring to yours. So, in the future, I will have many more requests to be tasted, but for now, I just have to see what you think of the following:

    1. 2003 Kongsgaard Hudson Valley Syrah
    2. 2002 Numanthia Termanthia
    3. 2003 Vall Llach Cellars Vall Llach
    4. 2002 Shirvington Cabernet
    5. 2003 Vina Almaviva
    6. 2002 Von Strasser Diamond Mtn. Rsrv Red Blend

    In fact, I think that makes up a great lineup right there, but if you don’t fit them all into this episode, then I guess I’ll let it slide. Among other things, I’d also love to see some Brewer-Clifton Pinots and I’d like to see you taste and review your all time favorite New World white wine. By the way, what are your all time favorite producers……New World red and white, and Old World red and white?

    Well, can’t wait for the episode tomorrow. Hopefully you’ll get to try some great wines. Keep up the viewer recommendation episodes. I’ve got about 30 wines that I’d like to see you try before I buy them, but hey, at least I’ll be buying them from WineLibrary. Have a great day. Best wishes.

    WH

  31. August 29, 2006

    Tony

    Hey, yeah, what’s with the #88. Is that a typo or some kind of “Paul is dead” cryptic message?

  32. August 29, 2006

    GeneV

    Great episode. I’m with ChrisR on the Barossa Shiraz in general. The ones with big RP scores are too much like cough syrup. The bargain bottles are actually more to my liking, if they taste like wine.

    My previous vote for a taste was the Verite Le Desir, because of the 20 point spread between RP and WS, but it looks like WL is out of stock. I’ll have to think on this some more.

    By the way, genetics has debunked the Persian legend for the Syrah grape. It is related to indigenous French grapes. A little known historical fact is that the wine for which Shiraz (Persia) was famous was white.

  33. August 29, 2006

    Cameron

    My previous comment doesn’t seem to be showing up, so sorry if this is a repost.

    Gary, another great episode. It was awesome to see such an extensive, thorough tasting of Shiraz across price points.

    QOTD:
    I would love to see you taste the 2002 Stephan Ridge Syrah (http://winelibrary.com/reviewwine.asp?item=7628). You loved his Cabernet, which I agree is stellar. I’m curious to see how the Syrah matches up, I’ve heard good things about it.

  34. August 29, 2006

    CJM

    Whoops! The Video Editor made a boo boo. Video fixed for all of you sharp eyed WLTV viewers!

  35. August 29, 2006

    E

    Pity about the Jacob’s Creek … wasn’t that a 90-pointer?

    QOD: well, since both of this weekend’s bottles were solid home runs, one suggestion in honor of each of ‘em:

    1) Nontraditional (non-oaky, non-buttery) Chardonnays: Chablis, Beaujolais Blanc, unwooded Aussie, etc.

    2) Languedoc Smackdown! Calvet-Thunevin Cuvee Constance vs. Daumas Gassac.

  36. August 29, 2006

    PeteB

    95pt rating. Great broad look @ Australian Shiraz.

    How about one of these for a try:
    2001 Peirano Six Clones Merlot
    2002 Cain Concept

  37. August 29, 2006

    TimF

    Tony S: I’m from CT originally so I’m a Giants fan. My old brother is a huge Jets fan so I had to go the other direction when I was a kid. And I would never put ketchup on a hot dog — I get everything on it Chicago-style except the sport peppers.

    To all those who find the downloading to be slow: After WLTV starts, hit pause and wait for the download to finish (you can tell by the color of the bar). Once it’s all there, press play and watch without hiccups.

  38. August 29, 2006

    TimF

    Whoa!!! What happened? I guess the new format just rolled out…

  39. August 29, 2006

    Russ J

    Gary: Great episode (even without the Joe Walton sing off)!

    I will repeat my earlier selections:
    1993 Roagna Barolo
    1995 Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia
    It would be cool to see some “older” wines get the WLTV treatment. I purchased some of both from your website. Tried the Roagna, not the Felsina yet.
    Thanks!

  40. August 29, 2006

    Brandon M

    Great Episode! Glad to see you get corked too!
    I would love to see you taste a Beaux Frères if you have any.

    Le Cadeau Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2003 tasted against Londer Parabol Pinot Noir 2003 would be cool. A California vs. Oregon tasting. Would love to hear the differences in “Terrior” or fruit.

    B

  41. August 29, 2006

    Russ J

    Wow, new format is right. I would like to see the comments numbered as before as it makes referring back to an earlier post easier.

  42. August 29, 2006

    Tony

    Damn! One minute on look, the next minute a totally new look! Wow!

  43. August 29, 2006

    johnb

    i vote you taste a ‘61 or ‘82 first growth

  44. August 29, 2006

    Tony G.

    Great episode, really enjoyed the rollercoaster ride. It was very emotional, you just didn’t know what was gonna happen next.

    Hey I like the idea for free shipping but what about us “Jersey guys”!?!

    Guess I shouldn’t complain, not everyone can get there in person and be completely overwhelmed by the vast selection that you have there.

    What about tasting some Boone’s Strawberry Hill? Just kidding, I wouldn’t want you doing that to yourself.

  45. August 29, 2006

    K Spengler

    Gene Mish & Tony: you guys must have had one too many. Banner definately says #81 .

    Gary, great job on one of my many favorite wines. Keep up the good work.

  46. August 29, 2006

    garyv

    yeah guys what are you guys drinking;)

  47. August 29, 2006

    Tony

    Hey, Gene Mishkevich will attest that before the site’s look changed, the second episode banner (where the letters come in all wavy and Gary says “I’m your host, Gary Whathisname”) clearly said “Episode #88″. They obviously fixed it before they switched to the new (and faster – thanks Gary!) server.

    As to what I’ve been drinking…I’ll give you one quess. :-)

  48. August 29, 2006

    gabe

    I bought that peter lehmann stuff for a BYOW joint…left 3/4 of it in the bottle..this seems to me the best way to know if you enjoy the wine..if its empty at the end of dinner or even better half way though, i usually buy it again

  49. August 29, 2006

    stewart

    enjoyed the shiraz episode. Sorry to here about the Jacob’s Creek. I tasted it and thought it was fairly good. It got a 91 from the spectator. Oh well,to each his own. How about tasting the Ridge 2004 Lytton spring Zin. Ridge has always been my favorite zin. I recently drank a 1981 ridge zin from san luis obispo[not made anymore]for my 25th wedding anniversary. It still tasted pretty good!

  50. August 29, 2006

    joe

    2000 Chateau Pavie – 100 points

  51. August 29, 2006

    Jim J.

    Gary:

    Killer episode. A 96 in my book. We even saw a new measure of a wine — the Vayner-Shrug. Cool.

    What about us NFL fans in L.A. without a team? — give me a surrogate, something that gives me a shot at free shipping. I’ll make it worth your while and buy a case of something if you do . . . .

    Would love to see you taste the Loring Clos Pepe ‘04 pinot. Need to see how your palate aligns with mine.

    Cheers.

    p.s. I like the new WLTV format.

    p.p.s. When do we get to learn about your art on the wall?

  52. August 29, 2006

    Darlene O.

    Hey, Gary…nice new look to WLTV. Great, great episode. I like the longer episodes. You really got into the shiraz’ and it was very educational. (I keep notes…:})

  53. August 29, 2006

    GregS

    Great episode. There are so many Australian Shiraz’s on the market right now it is crazy. These represent half of the inventory of the “package” stores in my area, but surprisingly I have not run into any of the wines you tasted.

    Please taste: St. Supery Chardonnay 2005
    Why? Because I just had a bottle, and liked it (mainly because it was well balanced and not overly oaked) and would like your evaluation.

    Also, how about doing a “sampler” package again where we can taste the wines along with you on WLTV(maybe one per episode because I would hate to crack open four bottles of wine at once). This is a great way for the audience to compare their palate with yours and get a better understading of the flavors/aromas you are describing.

  54. August 29, 2006

    KJB

    Great episode, nice variety of wines sampled, and interesting outcomes!

    QOD – 2001 Marques de Riscal Rioja Reserva. Why? 2001 vintage was spectacular in Spain. I loved the Muga 2001 Reserva, but its nowhere to be found anymore. I’m curious to see how the Marques de Riscal compares, as I have liked previous vintages….

    Back-up selection: 2004 Concha Y Toro Marques De Casa Cabernet Sauvignon. This always gets a high rating from WS, and I enjoyed the 2003. I have not tried the 2004 yet though. Also, if I’m not mistaken, you haven’t tried too many value Chilean cabernets on WLTV.

    Thanks,
    Kevin

  55. August 29, 2006

    Russ J

    Gary: one more from me. Today was NOT the first corked wine on WLTV. That honor belongs to the 2002 Raymond Reserve Cab in #53.

  56. August 29, 2006

    wayne530

    one of the best episodes so far. love the new design.
    -w

  57. August 29, 2006

    Colin D. Devroe

    I think the new layout is AWESOME!

  58. August 29, 2006

    Jaye

    Hi Gary,
    The new look of the WLTV website is very nice, very up-to-date and “now”. I enjoyed your episode, and was dismayed to hear you didn’t like the “Two Hands” wine. Last month or so it was on your website as a “Gary’s Pick”, so I ordered a couple of bottles. Now you trash it. I was happy to hear that you plan to taste it again in a few days. I will be interested to see what you think of it at that time.

    That brings me to my answer on the QOD – please re-taste the Two Hands Bad Impersonator.

    Thanks!

  59. August 29, 2006

    lizv

    i’m in love w/the new layout! wltv keeps getting better and better! keep it up

  60. August 29, 2006

    Gene Mishkevich

    Are you serious guys?? it said 88.. Gary, Ask your IT guys.. they changed it!!

  61. August 29, 2006

    johnm

    I like the visual aspects of the new design. Taste some Valley of the Moon 2003 zin – tasted it against several Ridge zins and even the rep at the tasting thought this was by far the best value vs. Three Valleys or Litton Springs.

  62. August 29, 2006

    garyv

    OH GENE M I know we changed it, thnx for spotting it!

  63. August 29, 2006

    E

    You redecorated! Nice.

    That reminds me, given the respectable showing by the low-end shirazes, it would have been interesting to slip the Rosemount back in there after it was dogged so in Episode 57.

  64. August 29, 2006

    scotty

    gary-great show-great new page.
    on wed.tastings why not keep the australian theme going with the kaesler touriga port

  65. August 29, 2006

    Julius

    I would like you to taste the 2002 Nino Negri Sfursat 5 Stelle.

  66. August 29, 2006

    TRPKL

    You said you like Tokaji over Sauterne and port. How about trying the 2000 Chateau Dereszla Tokaji #6? I bought some of this from WL a while back and haven’t tried it yet (so please lie if you don’t like it). Also, you talked about an Canadian icewine episode. How about a German eiswine episode that includes trockenbeerenauslese in it to compare the two top tier German wines?

    The St. Louis Rams don’t play the Jets – I feel cheated!

    TRPKL

  67. August 30, 2006

    chito

    Gary, man you got balls!!! Going against the grain does my soul good. So many times I have been disappointed with the wine I have been told I should like and find it to be crap. Keep up the great work and I’ll keep watching. San Antonio does not have an NFL team, can I team up with Dallas or Houston. WL would certainly profit from it.

  68. August 30, 2006

    Sean

    I’m loveing the new look. I wanted to go browse in the WL, but I live in the East Village and don’t have a car (or know how to drive at all). Bummer there isn’t some public transport… or is there? I’m up for an adventure.

    I’ve been doing the fish-mouth thing — and it makes a big difference! Thanks

  69. August 30, 2006

    Dan

    Great show! I hope you retaste that corked Teal Lake when you do the Kosher wine episode.

    Regarding the QOD: I don’t have any wine suggestions, so how about adding a few beers to the collection? I know this is the Wine Library, but you can really bring an increased awareness of beer to the wine-drinking crowd and help your business at the same time. There are many beers that would appeal to winedrinkers. Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown makes several great Belgium-style beers that are known to be appealing to wine fans. Duchesse De Burgeonne is a Flanders Red Ale from Belgium that is probably the most wine-like beer I’ve ever had. You should try to review it on the show. It has an incredible mix of sweet cherry, oak, bitterness, and tangy sourness that you will be surprised to find in a beer.

  70. August 30, 2006

    lizv

    hey sean, i go from the city all the time. you can take the train from penn station to millburn (m&e gladstone branch), it’s around 35 min. wl is about a 3 min. drive from there, maybe there’s a bus..try calling the store i’m sure they have a suggestion. it’s worth the trip for sure

  71. August 30, 2006

    Dan G

    Very nice episode. Had to watch it 12 hours later due to slow feed but it still interesting.
    For the QOTD. How about WS #41 wine of the year. 2001 Guigal CdP?

  72. August 30, 2006

    Bruce

    Hi Gary,

    I would like to see you taste six to eight Cabs in the $20 range. Can be from all over the world. Choose what you and your staff think are the best $20 Cabs in your inventory and give them a test. I am always looking for good solid $20 cabs to drink everyday and there is a big difference in quality. Can you help me find a couple winners?

    Thanks!

    Bruce

  73. August 30, 2006

    Adam

    Forgot to mention- Could you please taste Pillar Box Red…90’s scores across the board for less than $10.00
    Thanks!
    Adam
    PS Love the new layout

  74. August 30, 2006

    Craig

    Gary,
    You looked wind-blown but not entirely wine-blown today. :-) Exc episode in the 94-95 range — always great when you taste across the full range of value to premium, and the extended length was enjoyable. Totally agree with your comments on the Penguin and JC. Would like your comments on The Pillar Box Red as a comparison for the under 10 price point. Quite surprised by the pass on the Two Hands, and please do try it again. I have had the ‘04 Bad Impersonator, but did enjoy the ‘03 and did not find it to have the rather unusual profile you described for the ‘04. This leads me to my Question for Gary (QFG). Based on your experience and not RP or others’ superlatives, how do you find the ‘04 Aussie vintage overall compared to the ‘03? Feel free to throw in comparative comments to ’02 and ’01 as well. QOTD: Here are several, any of which would be thrilling to see:
    1) JL Chave Hermitage, whatever you have in the cellar room. I think it is the ‘03. This is not an idle interest. Help me step up to the plate for the plunk-down on this wine.
    2) ANY 100-point wine in your store, and if you like, let this be a second vote for the Chateau Pavie mentioned by Joe. I would very much like to see/hear your comments on a perfect(ly scored) wine.
    3) Clarendon Hills Hickenbotham or Piggott Range Shiraz, whichever you might have left of the ‘03 or ‘04, if any. If not, then substitute a single-vineyard grenache like the Romas or Hickenbotham. Thanks, CK

  75. August 30, 2006

    Sam Zen

    wish you would’ve tried the shotfire ridge. It’m my everyday wine that IMO packs a whole ot of bang for the buck.

  76. August 30, 2006

    Rick McQ

    Gary:

    Please try the Kathryn Kennedy Lateral 04′ – Love the new look!

  77. August 30, 2006

    Tony G.

    Gary,

    Like the new layout but the only thing is that you should list the wines right under the video link, like it was before, makes it easy to go right to the wine your tasting.

    Thanks, Tony

  78. August 30, 2006

    Bruce

    Hi Gary,

    I know that episode #69 was a joke, but it gets back to my question from yesterday. How long does a wine stay good or improve after being opened? Really makes a difference when buying wine by the glass that may have been openeded for a while or if I do not finish a bottle and want to keep it overnight? What is the optimal time for a wine to be opened to show it’s best and how long after opening does it start to go bad???

    Also, I went back and watched that episode, sorry to see that most of the bottles opened for WLTV go undrinken…what’s up with that? At least take them down to the store and let customers sample and taste them….you might even invite local viewers to stop in and taste or compare what you were talking about in that episode. You always say, I wish you could smell or taste this…let people stop in and do just that! Don’t let them go to waste!

    You also have not come up with your signature sign off???

    Take care,

    Bruce

  79. August 30, 2006

    David M

    Hey Gary!

    On the football cit cn we go by state in CA, since the LA area does not have a team, but the Oakland Raiders will kick their butts! I would liek you to taste the Owen Roe Yakima Valley Red 2003.

    Thanks!

  80. August 30, 2006

    Brandon M

    If Chito gets free shipping in Texas, does that mean I get it if the Raiders beat you in the last game of the season on New Years Eve? I hate the Raiders so paying shipping may be better than seeing them win. :-)

  81. August 30, 2006

    TimF

    I find the subject of Bruce’s question regarding how long to keep a wine open interesting. I don’t think there are any hard and fast rules with regard to this. It all depends on the wine and several external factors. One major component is the wine’s temperature and the surface area of wine that is in contact with air. So it can vary between decanters and room temperature. I look at a good bottle of wine like a good movie. You don’t want to miss the beginning or end. You can’t just come in, appreciate the climax and leave (applies to the bedroom too!).

    For everyday drinking wine I use the vac-u-vin system to save the wine in the fridge. I find that almost every wine tastes better the next day. Usually I only notice a degredation in quality around day 5 or 6.

  82. August 30, 2006

    Lawrence Leichtman

    This episode confirmed my experience with Australian Shiraz. Few good ones at the inexpensive range. Many good ones at the high range, nothing good in the middle. I have tried about 30 middle tier producers of Shiraz with bad results from all of them. I have repeatedly tried the Two Hands with no luck. I wouldn’t predict it would be better on retaste.

  83. August 30, 2006

    Matty Van

    might be better to do a week or two with free shipping to WLTV viewers as not everyone has an local NFL team that will have the pleasure if kicking the jets butt. I would be curious to know how many orders us veiwers could account for. i would also be curious if WLTV has a counter on its video feed..I would be curious to know how many views watch everyday.

  84. August 30, 2006

    Ty Webb

    TWO QUESTIONS:

    Who FARTED?
    How did you keep a straight face?

  85. August 30, 2006

    Bob U

    Gary
    How about a couple Italian reds Abrigo Barbaresco Vigna Montersino and Cesari Amarone

    Thanks
    Bob

  86. August 30, 2006

    Colin D. Devroe

    EP rating 90-91. STORAGE! STORAGE! STORAGE!

  87. August 30, 2006

    Steve

    Hey Gary, great episode…..again. Hey got a question, since Tampa Bay beat your Jets in the first pre-season of the year do I get free shippin:)
    I would like to see you do a show on tasting 2000 Brunellos. I am hearing that the 2000’s are drinking great and are better than the 99 or 01 for consumption today.

  88. August 30, 2006

    eperrier

    I drank a bottle of 02′BlackJack Harmonie red this past weekend with a friend. I really enjoyed it and wanted to know what you thought of it. It was an even better version of the 01′Powers Meritage, I thought.
    Great episode! Seems like there’s no middle ground in Aussie shiraz, you liked the expensive stuff and the really cheap stuff.

  89. August 30, 2006

    Tony S.

    Hey Gary…Nice new format…so I had to post again. TimF: If you don’t put ketchup on your hot dog, then you are a REAL Chicagoan…so good job man!

    Alright, when’s episode 82 going to be ready?

  90. August 30, 2006

    Eric B

    GV – Great episode, love the many bottle format.

    QOD – The 1998 Collematoni

  91. August 30, 2006

    Jim

    Loved the episode. Question: my beloved Eagles play the Jets in the final preseason game this Friday. Does the free shipping offer stand? ‘Cause the Birds will be tough this year, really tough.

    Possible topic for the future: Wine Critics. I’d love to hear your opinion on the merits of various critics, especially on different wines. I know many people belive RP is the master in Bordeaux and California reds, Burghound in Burgundy, Tanzer in whites (from anywhere), and Wine Spectator in nowhere. What do you think? An episode with a few wines that have gotten inconsistent reviews from various tasters would be awesome, where you would cast the tiebreaking vote.

  92. August 30, 2006

    PeterT

    QOD – My vote is for you tasting the ‘03 Almaviva. WS gives it a 95….hmmmmm

  93. August 30, 2006

    Gene Mishkevich

    Gary, question. What’s the proper way to open a bottle of wine.. I mean which opener would you recommend, how to hold it “in style” and how to pour properly?

    thanks

  94. August 30, 2006

    John Holmes

    Hey Gary,

    Really quickly….I love the new layout. It looks very professional and clean. However, there is one small problem that I want to bring up. I was really disappointed that your guys took away the hyperlinked name listing of the wines that is posted below each video. I like to be able to click on the names of the wine and check out their price and find any additional info, or to be able to write down the name without rewinding and rewatching the video. Hopefully your guys can correct this problem soon because I think most of us would like to see it as it was. Thanks!

    WH

  95. August 30, 2006

    Gene Mishkevich

    AND HOW ABOUT FIXING THE TIME???? John Holmes’ post shows up at 3:28 when it’s really 4:28… I know you run in EST.. why is your server on CST??

  96. August 30, 2006

    garyv

    Gene: Working on the time thing now!

  97. August 30, 2006

    Dan

    Gary,

    You offered free shipping to the area of the team that beats the Jets on any given week. Howabout free shipping for NY & NJ customers when the Jets win?

    As far as the question of the day, I’d like to see tastings of wines from Justin Vineyards. I’ve heard some good things about their wines, and would like to see GV taste and give his impressions.

    Also, for the future, what about tasting and offering some local stuff? NY and NJ have some pretty good efforts out there. Sure, they may not be recognized all that well, and certainly are not as well known as California or Washington, domestically speaking, but there are some great bottles out there, from some great vineyards – Tomasello Vineyards in NJ comes to mind

  98. August 30, 2006

    Jaye

    Just read through all the comments. I love the idea of tasting a 100 point wine — I would love to be in the store when you are doing that though! How about a contest for WLTV watchers in the area that they can come in and taste with you on some special episodes? That would be a kick!

  99. August 30, 2006

    Christopher

    Still waiting for the video to load…
    Constuctive comments on the design while I wait:

    - The extra extra large video title (for current video) is a little oversized.
    - I will miss the short descriptions and list of wines under each video as a great orientation, nhowever see the value in the short concise listing and have the current video prominently displayed at the top.
    - The category list on the left was quite useful, particularly with the number of items in brackets. I am sure the new search function works well… but it gives the impression of being a fine search rather than a loose search.
    - The previous design / layout fitted better in the layout on the winelibrary.com website.. this new layout seems to be its own website (ie different branding) although it maybe this is on purpose.

    Finally, this is not constructive:
    - The grey bottle with WLTV is terrible.

    Video is still loading, probably just traffic so will come back tomorro, look forward to the Australian Shiraz episode.

  100. August 30, 2006

    josephc

    Love the redesign…Keep up the awesome work.

  101. August 30, 2006

    Chris

    Enjoyed the episode. I’ve been a big fan of Langmeil for about three years now. I adore the Jackman Cabernet. I would love to see a tasting of the 20 rows Grappler. How about a Washington State episode.

  102. August 31, 2006

    Chris S

    Gary, These questions are for the “The Chuk’s Greatest Hits” spreadsheet…

    Could you provide your scores for both the Massena and Langmeil.

    Also, you commented that the Langmeil “was more like a $200 Cote Rotite”, I know I’ve butchered the spelling of Cote rotite…..could you help this ignorant boy?

    Also is “cassis” the correct spelling? Sorry

    AWESOME episode….thanks very much for this great service….I’m addicted….as if you can’t tell by the overly-anal Spreadsheet.

    Not only will it help people to remember certain wines from the episodes, but everyone will be able to compare your comments/impressions when they are drinking the wine. This is great for people like me who are trying to learn all of the aromas/flavors. thanks, again.

    P.S. Someone recommended not mentioning your name in the beginning (when you asked for suggestions for the sign-off)….I’m so glad you didn’t take that advice. I really look forward to see the different intensity you have when you say, “I’m your host…Gary Vayner CHUK”. Sometimes you are subdued and other times you are revved up….it’s a good indication of your mood. It reminds of the MAD DOG’s sign in when he says, “Aaaaaaaannnnnnd….good afternoon…..How are you todaaaaaayyyy”. I’m assuming you listen to “Mike and the Mad Dog” and are completely in synch with my point. Anyway,

  103. August 31, 2006

    TimF

    Chris S: Do you think there is a big overlap of WLTV viewers and Mike and the Mad Dog listeners? I’ve listened to that show since it started. I used to listen to Chris when he filled in for various people too. One of my funniest memories was draft day — must have been 1989. I was driving back from a Mets game with my brother listening to him. The Jets took Jeff Lageman with their first pick. Mad Dog started going off (as usual). He kept saying, “Who the hell is Jeff Lageman?!?”. Over and over for about half an hour. I can still get a laugh out of my brother whenever I bust out that line.

  104. August 31, 2006

    DaBear

    Gary,

    I am glad that you have picked one of my questions to you to become the “question of the day”.

    As for the current “question of the day” I would enjoy your views on the Barocco Primitivo, I believe a primitivo grape is an southern Italian Zin, am I correct? When you think of Italian red’s, you do not think of Zin’s. Do you think this is a underapreciated/undermarketed category or past it’s prime?

  105. August 31, 2006

    GOL

    Gary, WLTV continues to evolve like a great wine! Keep up the good work

    QOD: Another vote for the Pillar Box Red. I just tried the ‘05 and found it not as good as ‘04, which to me was a great wine in the under $10 category. Note to Craig #74, not sure Pillar vs. Penguin or JC is the right under $10 comp as Pillar ‘04 was 57% cabernet… interestingly ‘05 Pillar doesn’t have varietal info on bottle.

    QOD #2: I support the many emails who suggested tasting a 100 pt wine… since I’ve never had one the next best thing would be to watch Gary have one!

    Gary — Look for my email on Nov 20, when I’m sure you’ll also be getting one from Tony S and TimF… Da Bears 76, Jets 3!

  106. August 31, 2006

    Rob P

    Gary, I’m in Key West Florida and our team here is the Dolphins which of course WILL spank the Jets this year so I’ll be looking forward to free shipping twice this year.
    Question on the Little Penguin and Amaroo. I just read an interesting article on “manufactured” wines in Australia. Would you consider these a manufactured wine or a more traditional wine that changes each vintage?
    Thanks.

  107. August 31, 2006

    DougG

    Interseting. Question. The wine that was corked was that screwtop? It kind of looked like it from the video but not completly sure.

  108. September 2, 2006

    Gerard

    G,

    Love watching WLTV. Wife and kids think I’m nuts, but to bad. Corked wine… Not sure I’ve had it but a have come across some of my regular wines that were just absolutely horribly different, assumed the were corked, dumped the bottle. So what should I do with a bad bottle. Most times I just let it go. On one occasion I returned it to WL, about $30 bottle. Another occasion I returned 2 twenty dollar bottles to same store(not WL) both half full, they gave me a hassle in the store then finally after long discussion replaced the wine. What is proper protocol in returning wine? How much wine should be left in the bottle? And who pays , you or distributor. Please advise.
    Lets go Jets. Hoping for 8-8 season.

    G-ROD

  109. September 2, 2006

    garybee

    It is surprising at times that wines like the Little Penguin ends up being a good “every day” wine. I’ll have to check the Amaroo.
    Gary Beesley

  110. September 3, 2006

    Matthew

    Hey Gary, my first time to your site. Fantastic. I’m an Aussie living just outside the Barossa Valley. I am a big fan of Langmeil and found your site while trying to get some idea of how their ‘97 magnums of Freedom were drinking as I have a couple. I’d also like to take this opportunity to comment to Mitch regarding his post on the 29th August re big wines being put out for the export trade. Essentially, this is correct to a point. And from my understanding that’s doing well in the states. Does it matter if wine is made to a style that is liked for a partiucular market but not necessarily the same as what is preferred in its home country? This aside, let me assure you that the Langmeil Freedom Shiraz vines only produce enough fruit to make about 1 – 1.5 bottles (750ml) per vine of this fantastic single vineyard wine. Believe me, if you don’t want them over there in the States then we’d love to keep them here. The Freedom only ever lasts a few months here on the domestic front and having been awarded best red in the Barossa (beating some fierce Barossan competition) its true testiment to the wines and the team that makes them.

  111. September 5, 2006

    Matthew

    Hello Gary. Another great episode. I just was discussing the nuances of Shiraz to my stepfather the other night while vacationing in Michigan (Go LIONS!) One of the primary I tried to stress with him is that the price of the bottle is not always an indicator of the quality of the wine within. This episode really drove that point home. I admit that I turned my nose up at Little Penguin. I am going to buy a bottle today to see how it compares to other lower-priced Shiraz such as Buckley’s or Four Emus.

    I would be interested in your opinion of Mas De Guiot Cabernet/Syrah or Mas de Guiot Grenache/Syrah

  112. October 7, 2006

    Rick

    Gary

    http://www.jacobscreek.com/apps/uploadedFiles/VideoTasting/14//Reserve_Shiraz_56k.mov

    Total number of awards: 126

    2003 Shiraz
    Wine Spectator – Sips and Tips – 21 June 2006
    91

    Thick, with a layer of black pepper over a mouth filling gob of black cherry and liquorice that cries out for grilled red meat. Drinkable now, better with some age. Best from 2008 through 2013. 61,000 cases imported. From Australia.
    Wine Spectator’s editors have selected this wine as the best buy of the week

    2003 Shiraz
    Wine Spectator – Aug.31, 2006
    Great Value 91

    Full of cherry and licorice notes that will tame grilled meat. Its combination of quality, price and availability gain it a Smart buy. Thick, with a layer of black pepper over a mouth filling gob of black cherry and licorice that cries out for grilled meat. Drinkable now, better with some age. Best from 2008 through 2013.

    2003 Shiraz
    WINESTATE September/October 2006
    3.5 stars

    Charred, smoky bacon nose and a big, oaky palate with some attractive varietal fruit underneath and drying tannins on the finish. $15.99

    2002 Shiraz
    More International Success for Jacob’s Creek
    Gold

    Jacob’s Creek wines have won major awards in two international wines shows.

    The shows were the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles and the Pacific Rim International Wine Show in the US. Results for both shows have been announced this week.

    The Belgium competition, which is recognised by the European Union, was judged for the 12th time in Ostend between March 31 and April 2.

    Jacob’s Creek 1997 Centenary Hill Shiraz was awarded a Great Gold medal, which under the rules of the competition means it scored equal or greater than 96 points from judges. It was the only Australian wine to achieve such recognition.

    As one of the largest and most respected wine competitions in western USA, the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition receives entries from around the world.

    The Pacific Rim International Wine Competition has grown from about 100 entries in 1985 to more than 2200 entries in 2005 and 2006 will mark 21 years of the competition.

    Pacific Rim Competition – USA

    2002 Jacob’s Creek Reserve Shiraz – Gold (Best in Class)
    2003 Jacob’s Creek Shiraz – Gold
    1997 Jacob’s Creek Centenary Hill Shiraz – Gold
    2004 Jacob’s Creek Shiraz Rosé – Gold

    Chief Winemaker for Jacob’s Creek, Philip Laffer, said the international wins were testament to the philosophy of the brand, which is to improve quality with every vintage.

    Jacob’s Creek wines have won more than 2,250 national and international wine show medals and trophies.

    2002 Shiraz
    Wine Spectator – July 2005
    89

    Lovely, focused blueberry and vanilla flavours sing the main melody. Framework is supple and velvety, letting the flavours persist on the well-formed, graceful finish. Drink now through 2012.

    2002 Shiraz
    Winestate – July/August 2005
    4½ stars

    A bright and vibrant wine with a nose that is big and lifted with lovely aromas of blackcurrants. Palate exhibits blackcurrant flavours with nice tarry/licorice complexity. Palate is soft, sweet and rich. $15.99

    2002 Shiraz
    Editorial in July/August 2005 Winestate Magazine
    Peter Simic – Editor/Publisher

    Shiraz is the flagship of the Australian wine industry and each year we delight in putting together the biggest tasting of Shiraz wines anywhere in the world. It shows the extraordinary reach of the varietal, which has travelled from the Rhone Valley in France to be adopted and made the signature wine of Australia. In this country it has achieved great heights, both as a dependable quaffer at lower price points and at the premium end, where its power continues to amaze.
    While I don’t normally draw attention to an individual wine, I have to give an honourable mention to the Jacob’s Creek Reserve Shiraz 2002, which can be found in the marketplace for around the $15 mark. This is the yardstick that other makers need to meet. Even if it were twice the price, this is what we are looking for! An extraordinary wine that over delivers.

    2002 Shiraz
    Wine and Spirits – October 2005
    86

    Round and supple, this show relatively moderate ripeness, which means black fig and green peppercorn flavours that keep it fresh. A good, firm red for anything off the grill.

    2002 Shiraz
    Wine Spectator – October 2005
    89

    Focused blueberry and vanilla flavours sing the main melody. Framework is supple as the flavours persist on the graceful finish.

    2002 Shiraz
    Wine Spectator Dec.31, 2005 – Jan.15, 2006
    89

    Smart Buys – RED

    2002 Shiraz
    Wine Spectator – Dec.31 – Jan.15 2006
    89

    Smart Buys

    US$13

    2002 Shiraz
    Wine Spectator (H. Steiman)
    89

    “Lovely, focused blueberry & vanilla flavors sing the main melody. Framework is supple & velvety, letting the flavors persist on the well-formed, graceful finish. Drink now through 2012.”

    2002 Shiraz
    Wine & Spirits (J. Greene)
    86

    “…A good, firm red for anything off the grill.”

    2001 Shiraz
    Golf Asia

    A full bodied wine style, showing concentrated spicy plum and dark chocolate fruits, it is finely balanced with supportive cedar and vanillin oak flavours. Fruit and oak tannins are further harmonised to provide a velvety soft and persistent tannin finish, a typical feature of the Jacob’s Creek red wine

    2001 Shiraz
    Winestate Annual 2005
    $10-$15

    A rich, dense wine – all spices and Christmas cake. Nose has charry oak over sweet fruit. Powerful tannic palate, lots of plums and some residual sugar sweetness. Long, lingering and complex.

    2000 Shiraz
    Winestate, July/Aug 2002
    4 Stars

    Bold chary oaky nose, nice plum and blueberries underneath. Generous and firm palate has balance and persistence.

    2000 Shiraz
    OUT OF THE RACK

    Reserve range offers outstanding value
    There are now three ranges of the Jacob’s Creek wines: the “core range”, which includes the two wines reviewed here, plus a number of other varietal wines, the Reserve range at this sort of price point and the Limited Reserve range which are in the $40-$60 price point.

    It is the Reserve wines, including the shiraz and the cabernet sauvignon, which I also believe represent outstanding value. They are the sort of wines you’d serve to your prospective father-in-law when you were asking for his daughter’s hand in marriage. He needs, after all, to know she is going to marry a man of good taste (or the other way around).

    The wine has considerable richness of fruit, a full crimson colour in the glass, lots of pepper on the nose and nice harmony of fruit, tannins, alcohol (13 per cent) and subtle oak influence. In all, a very well put together wine at a reasonable price.

    Orlando Jacob’s Creek 2000 Reserve Shiraz $14

    2000 Shiraz
    Wine Spectator – July 2005

    “Moderate”
    Jacob’s Creek 2000 Reserve Shiraz
    South Eastern Australia

    Medium-plus tannins and acidity with raspberry, blackberry, vanilla, mint,
    and black pepper; medium finish Venison. Smart Buy. Serve now, but will
    hold for some time.

    1999 Shiraz
    Wine Enthusiast, September 2002

    87 Jacob’s Creek 1999 Reserve Shiraz (South Australia) $18 Combines effusively rich, blueberry liqueur aromas with vanilla, yet still comes across as a little tight, with the promise of better things to come. That’s confirmed by the layers of ripe chewy tannins on the finish. Goes down easy now; should be better in a couple of years.

    1999 Shiraz
    Divine, May/July 2002

    Jacob’s Creek Reserve Shiraz 1999 $15
    The Jacob’s Creek Reserve range, and particularly the Shiraz, have received many accolades since they were first released last year, and with very good reason. I’m sure smaller winemakers must look enviously at the ability of big companies such as Orlando Wyndham to source grapes from far and wide and come up with a wine many would be proud to sell for nearly double the price.
    I tried this on a very cool day – we’ve had lots in Melbourne this past summer – as it is real winter wine: ripe plum and raspberries supported by subtle smoky, vanilin oak flavours of great length and persistence that are as comforting as tucking into a bowl of hearty soup by an open fire. But given its restorative and invigorating qualities, I’d recommend grabbing a bottle whatever the weather.

    1999 Shiraz
    Uncorked, May 2002
    5 Stars

    Extraordinary value!
    It has fruitcake, gamy, smoky, toasty aromas and a soft, easy drinking palate with generous savoury flavours. The intensity and palate length are remarkable in a wine of its price.
    Food: Meatballs in tomato sauce.
    Ageing: Drink now and for five or six years.

    1999 Shiraz
    Sun Herald Sunday Life

    This slightly up-market version of Orlando’s international bestseller is a great bargain in anybody’s language. With a core of liqueurish, blackberry-like shriraz fruit, and touches of sweet spice and coconutty oak, it’s a mouth-filling drink.

    1999 Shiraz
    Halliday’s Top 100, Winepros website
    89

    Good colour and a bouquet flooded with ripe, dark plum and prune leads logically into a palate with luscious ripe fruit offset by appropriately persistent tannins and subtle oak.

    1999 Shiraz
    Jeremy Oliver’s On Wine Report Update, October 2001 Vol 4 Issue 9

    Those who like modern shiraz will find excellent value for money in this fullish, generous sort of a red, whose ripe raspberry, plum and blackcurrant fruit is well matched with sweet vanilla and toasty oak. It’s not overblown, does have a good length of bright, ripe flavour and does finish with well-integrated smooth tannins and acids. Drink 2001-2004+

    1998 Shiraz
    Wine Enthusiast 2001

    The blackberry, vanilla and toasty oak elements are nicely balanced on the nose and in the mouth. Deep fruit shines, and the supple mouthfeel is very appealing.

    Finishes long, with a compelling back-end bouquet that completes the package in fine style.

    1998 Shiraz
    Wine and Spirits, February 2001

    This ‘98 is filled with plush, ripe shiraz flavors. All the black fruit rolls around on the tongue, voluptuous and bold. It’s inherently simple, yet deliciously rich. Open a bottle with steak au poivre.
    (4,000 cases)

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  113. October 7, 2006

    Rick

    http://www.jacobscreek.com/apps/uploadedFiles/VideoTasting/14//Reserve_Shiraz_56k.mov

  114. November 19, 2006

    Claudio

    Gary -

    I thought the Journal or other publication recently came out and stated that Shiraz did not come from Iran and that it was a myth.

    Let me know if you want me to forward the article to you.

    Claudio
    Chicago, IL

  115. July 16, 2007

    Dave Canada

    I used to be so hyped on these wines but am now looking to get rid of my Dead Arms, LAngmeil etc……should I hold onto them, assuming that I may come back to them in the future? Can you change from a new world to old world and then back?

  116. February 12, 2008

    thefanjestic

    Sweet Shiraz – “If I have to die – I hope I’m killed by a Fruit Bomb!”
    -The Fanjestic

  117. April 6, 2008

    Kristen

    That was interesting that the Little Penguin showed so well. I’ll have to try it out.

    QOTD: I’d love to see you try Georgian wines, in particular, the Mukuzani Dry Red (WL #:7238). At $8, it would be cool to see how it shows. I’ve been interested in trying Georgian wines to expand my palate, but they aren’t the easiest to find.

  118. April 30, 2008

    lawschooldrunk

    I’m watching these out of order but that is the second kosher wine (teal lake) that has been corked on winelibrarytv.com. what’s up with that crap?

  119. July 13, 2009

    wayno da wino

    Yo G, Had to watch this one again since i loooove the Aussie Fruit bombs
    from time to time. This is a Grrrreaaaat Episode!!!!

  120. September 18, 2009

    John J.

    qotd: do a tasting on all your charbono’s and throw in a few you dont carry too. Also a vin jaune episode would be killer.

  121. October 26, 2009

    Steve

    Hi Gary,
    LOOOOOVVVEEE watching you, really enjoy!
    How about this tasting dude!
    Do you know anything about the 2003 Vintage.
    04, 05,06 – awesome.
    Langmeil – $$$$$ – it had better be good!
    Lehmann and Jacobs Creek, apples with apples mate, you looked at them up against wines from the 04 vintage?
    Love your work, keep it up, still love the episode of you showing the effect the weather has on wine tasting! Bahahaha, kills me every time!
    Cheers,
    Steve.

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