Plenty of complexity, a touch of class and high quality define the Kangarilla Road Shiraz which is also, in a word, “dark.” While I enjoyed a couple of glasses unaccompanied by food I can imagine this one would go well with a peppercorn filet or other moderately spicy dish. There is a hint of dark fruit (plum and dark berries) which becomes more noticeable as I work my way down through the glass, but early on I caught the distinct flavor of earthiness reminiscent of the mild-Mediterranean like climate this wine was grown in. And while Kangarilla describes their oak usage as “an integrated approach … that does not overpower the palette” I find the oak to be very present, not overpowering but noticeable. The 2001 is slighlt more acidic and spicy than what I would have expected from an Australian. Not the most notable wine in my collection but worth having, very drinkable and a very good buy.
Ownership: Kevin & Helen O’?Brien
Winemaker: Kevin O’?Brien
Appellation: McLaren Vale
Winery Name: Kangarilla Road
Vintage: 2001
Wine Maker: Kevin O’Brien
Grape: Syrah
Country: Australia
Timing: Now or by the end of 2006.
Drinkable Score: 8/10
Price: $15 – $20 in Store
