2002 d'Arenberg The Laughing Magpie Shiraz Viognier (1500ml)

There is an increasing trend to blend Shiraz with Viognier, a practice that originated in the Cote Rotie. Many people are surprised to learn that Viognier is a white grape variety which is used to lift the aromatics and add complexity to Shiraz. This wine has been matured in both French and American oak. Totally opaque black crimson colour with black crimson hue. Aroma of dark chocolate, spice, ripe plum and violets – a delightful sniff. The palate is impressive with its generous ripe fruit flavours and explosive blackpepper character over a blackberry and pencil shavings back palate. Excellent length and depth. Fine grained tannins, dry but balanced to fruit with long aftertaste of ripe plum and spice.
Cellar 4-5 years (2007-2008)
Alc/Vol: 14.5%RATING: 96/100VALUE: XXXXX/5

Other Rivews…..
Oozing licorice, spice, blackberry and chocolate; very ripe and rich; tannins not overdone. RATING 94 DRINK 2012 $31.50
'James Halliday - 2005 Australian Wine Companion'