Australia is home to some of the best Shiraz in the world, and is trying to change it’s reputation in some places to stretch beyond the big, jammy red wine it’s gotten a reputation as. While usually on it’s own, Viognier can add body and floral characteristics to develop more complexity. Made by two of the best in the business, can Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier Shiraz-Viognier deliver on it’s pedigree?
Sight: A moderate amethyst core, with warm magenta edges
Smell: Warm, with lots of bright raspberry, cherry, and blueberries. There are hints of baking spices, leather, chocolate, and touches of sage are present. The predominate character is deeply laced with ripe, fresh berries.
Sip: The body is bright, moderately weighted, and fleshy like a plum in its texture. A hint of minimal sweetness, leads, but then leans out, and gets somewhat bitter. Black plums, currants, and black cherries all come to the front, with notes of spice and hints of herbs. The slightest touch of floral elements wink at the end.
Savor: The end is smooth thanks to the fine grain of the tannins, notes of black cherry and plums dominate, and the finish is moderate in length at best.
Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier Shiraz-Viognier is a lean shiraz with a great acidity and some complex elements of spice and flowers around the edges. While the viognier is minimal, it does add some weight and character. While it’s a little light on tannins, it balances this with its texture and brightness. The style is not particularly jammy, but represents something Australia is trying to move toward, a refined Shiraz that demonstrates it’s ability to be more than an oversized fruit bruiser. If you’re looking for something more in the old-world style, or not as jammy, Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier Shiraz Viognier is a great choice.
Verdict: Black Plum, Blackberry, Black Cherry, Lean
Rating: 83
Price: $18
Victoria, Australia