Ripe cherry fruit, fresh, soft finish. McLaren Vale JSM - Taking its acronym from the initials of the 19th Century sea captain who once owned the little building that houses the winery tasting room and who cut his initials in the stone lintel over the door, this approachable wine is a blend of Shiraz and Cabernet. Dark ruby in color, it offers forward peppery and plummy aromas. Full, juicy and ripe in flavor, it's a bit closed when the cork is first pulled but soon opens up in the glass to full, fresh and long flavors that are elegant and easy to enjoy. McLaren Vale Short Row Shiraz - plums, a hint of Port, warm and ripe.
Flavors follow the nose, big but accessible.
Earthy scent, bubble-gum and weedy herbal notes. The Peppermint Paddock McLaren Vale Chambourcin - Dark garnet. Vaguely interesting, but raises the question why anyone in Australia is taking the time and effort to grow this rather forgettable French-hybrid red grape. High Trellis McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon - Very dark garnet. Juicy and ripe with a fresh, crisp finish.