Ballast Stone Shiraz, 2008

One night I was at a loss on what wine to taste and review.  Looking in my wine refrigerator I decided on a Shiraz.  This had been recommended to me by a Kroger Wine Consultant.

Ballast Stone 2008 Shiraz is from McLaren Vale, Australia.  It is 100% Shiraz and aged for 15 months predominately in American oak with a smaller percentage in French oak.This is a full bodied wine with a deep purple color.  Aroma - jammy blackberry, tobacco, coffee, and charred wood.  Flavor - charred wood, coffee, pepper, leather, and earthy.  Low tannins.  Balanced.  This was delightful.

Winemaker's Notes:  "Deep violet red in colour. Berry, cassis & traces of cigar box on the nose; solid, rich, robust palate of up front black and brambleberry fruit throughout the balanced, well structured palate with leather, coffee bean & earthy nuances and a trace of black pepper.  

Food pairing: Oxtail ragout with homemade ribbons of fettucine plus a generous helping of our Shiraz and I am set for a “big night in!”."