Oxford Landing Shiraz 2011

Shiraz gets such a bad rap because most of what people get to experience is inky black, extracted, high alcohol, and devoid of detail or charm. This wine is the opposite. Clocking in at a perfectly reasonable 13.0% alcohol, it has aromas of dark cherries, cocoa, and late summer herbs (sage, thyme, etc.). On the palate it's nearly refreshing in its style, and shows the kind of zing that happens when you squeeze a little citrus onto salmon --- the whole mouthfeel changes and shifts in glorious fashion. I can't think of a more enjoying wine to have with friends on a casual evening, grilling brats, singing songs, and enjoying life. Be sure to serve at correct temperature for full effect (not warmer than 65 degrees ... an ice bucket in the summertime does wonders for a wine like this).
-Note by Jason Kallsen, 1 May 2013.

Food Pairings

Winged beasties with dark meat like duck, goose, squab, and griffins. Hooved game. Roasted meats.