David Lawrason’s Weekly Wine Pick: a racy new Australian red
Wolf Blass 2009 Grey Label Shiraz Cabernet
$34.95 | Robe Mount Benson, Australia | 90 points
This new shiraz-cabernet blend is a racier replacement for the individual Grey Label shiraz and cabernet bottles that were the pick of the LCBO general list for many years. It comes from a cooler region of South Australia.
The taste: The wine pours very dark, an alluring ruby-purple. Expect a very fragrant, pure nose of blackcurrants, eucalyptus, dark chocolate and tobacco, all nicely harmonized. It’s full-bodied and rich but not thick and soupy thanks to firm acidity. The tannins are quite fine; the length is excellent.
How to drink it: It’s naturally well balanced enough to enjoy whenever you please, but is also structured to last another five years with ease. Decant for an hour to aerate, pour into a large, elongated glass and serve, ideally, with lamb.
LCBO 261487
I’ve enjoyed the Grey Label from Wolf Blass for the past 5 or so years. The taste is great and you’re not left with a morning headache that some wines can give you. 5/5.