The Auswine Forum

I'm putting on a tasting of cabernet [or Bordeaux blend] & shiraz wines from a range of regions, featuring a direct comparison of 3 mature vintages of Virgin Hills (1983, 85 & 8 and 3 maturing Trevallons (1989, 1990, 1995), a 1999 Argiano Solengo [which may not actually contain Syrah in that vintage), followed by some 'young Turks': MontGras Riserva 2005, Godolphin 2005, Anwilka 2005. The idea is to explore what has been achieved with this very ancient combination - from hermitaged claret to Max Schubert filling in cab's 'hollow middle'- in these very different climates. Just wanted to ask what kinds of style and flavour differences I might expect, as I have not tried any of these.
Nigel

Nigel,

Don't be surprised if those Virgin Hills are undrinkable and well past their prime.

Ric,
I wonder if adding Parson's Flat would offer a sample of an hmest affordable and yet elegant version of Cab-Shiraz to compare with the Godolphin, and 1996 Bin 389. We also have the 1006Henschke Keynton to add as a bonus.
Nigel

I'd say the 1006'd be well past it by now.

I meant the 1996 Keynton :~)

I know, just too good an opportunity.

Henschke Keyneton Estate 1996
In great shape, drinking more or less at it's peak. Lovely rounded leathery notes although still quite a lot of primary fruit hanging around. Really good.

On that note, my own impression if the 96 above, for interest's sake. Drinking well, IMO.

My personal favourite is the 2002 Yalumba Signature. One of the best in recent years. Still to be found if you hunt around.

Tristram

Agreed, great wine.

There are quite a few Sth African wineries who do Shiraz/Cab blends (usually with a bit of Merlot as well). Rust en Vrede Estate blend fits the bill.

Cheers

This is a round-the-world toe-dip for the uninitiated (including myself), so I'm just using the one South African representative - one boosted by RP a couple of years ago. If we go for the style, we might feature more in a future tasting.
Nigel