22/10/06 – Battle of Bosworth (Australia) Shiraz Viognier 2005

Battle of Bosworth (Australia) Shiraz Viognier 2005
A McLaren Vale wine from 35 miles south of Adelaide on the Gulf of St Vincent. As is the fashion, the Shiraz here is supplemented by 10 per cent of Viognier, but this is a co-ferment rather than a blend, and the grapes are organically farmed and certified. Ageing in French and American oak has added a cedary, savoury note to vibrant black fruit and just a a glimpse of something tarry and liquoricy. The Viognier component is probably responsible for a floral, high-toned fruit note. On the palate a raft of lush, spicy, mouthfilling berry fruit flavours washes over the tongue. A plush, dark chocolate and plummy note is deep and sonorous, but there’s life and an edge of brightness about this wine too, with spices, nice acidity and a chewy edge of tannin. Absolutely delightful stuff, and the Battle of Bosworth Chardonnay that’s also in Oddbins at the same price is an elegant, discreetly oaked wine with pristine fruit flavours. 9.99, Oddbins.