2010 Red Blend Wine between $10 and $25

Dark ruby-red in color, this wine opens with a fragrant blast of red berry and wild violets, expanding on the palate into nuances of damp earth, crushed raspberry and mocha. Notes of violets rejoin the chorus of fruit and soft tannins on the finish. While this can evolve gracefully for 2 to 3 years, it is eminently delicious to drink now.

Although the fresh cedar and cassis notes of Cabernet Sauvignon dominate the nose, the interplay of flavors on the palate is like a "Where's Waldo" wine game, with one varietal flavor emerging at one instant, followed by another, and then another, all merging in a chorus of fruit flavors at the finish. Light to medium-bodied, and totally ready to drink now, this is a delightful wine with the distinctive and interesting flavor signature of its own — a fitting tribute to the field blends of old.

A blend of 98% Shiraz & 2% Viognier, this richly concentrated Barossa Shiraz is indicative of the style for which Australia's top production region is famous. The wine is dark in color, rich and dense. There are ample tannins balanced by the powerful fruit. You will note the hints of blackberries, mint, and eucalyptus flavors upfront and in the finish. Try Rubus Barossa Shiraz with rich dishes like lamb shank, Osso bucco, beef steak or roast duck.
(from importer's website)