Torbreck Woodcutter's Red 2002

Can you say Shiraz? I knew you could. This wonderfull, elegant red wine, made exclusively of syrah grapes is a delight to the nose and palette. Full bodied, smooth and a nose of cherries and spice. Sexy! The wine is currently sold as "Woodcutter's Shiraz" and starting in 2003 they are using screw caps. My 2002 however, has a cork. Eat your heart out...

I've had a number of reds from Australia, but this is one of the best I've tasted. Particularly in the low end of the spectrum, they usually seem to have flavors that I am just not used to tasting in a syrah. But the 2002 Woodcutter is a pleasant exception. About $20.00 at the time of release it can still be found on The Web for between $20 and $25. Score some and try it out.

The wine is from the Barossa Valley which if what I am tasting is an example, is an area that competes in both quality and flavor of the local California regions, but also excels in price. If I were into 15 hour flights I would be there tomorrow.

To all you winemakers in the Barossa Valley, I'm less than an hour from both Napa and Sonoma. Bring wine!!! I'll drive.

Tonights website capture:
Note the bright string of lights in the middle right side. It says, "Ghiradelli". Chocolate. Yum.

May your wine be wonderful, and your glass full.

Don