2006 d'Arenberg Laughing Magpie Shiraz Viognier

Inspired by the great wines of Cote Rotie, the name ‘Laughing Magpie’ is derived from winemaker Chester Osborn’s two daughters referring to their pet Kookaburra as a laughing magpie because they found it too difficult to pronounce Kookaburra. The magpies black and white colours also symbolise the blending of the two grape varieties Shiraz and Viognier. First produced in 2000 this wine’s exotic opulent characteristics resulted in instantaneous success amongst wine drinkers and critics throughout the world with US critic Robert Parker commenting “Year in and year out, one of the most exotic, flamboyant, and sexiest cuvees in the d’Arenberg portfolio.”

D’Arenberg regard the 2006 vintage as one of their greatest vintages ever, with Shiraz being a highlight displaying wonderful levels of natural acidity and intensity of flavour. A blend of 90% Shiraz and 10% Viognier the two grape varieties were co-fermented and then transferred into American and French oak barriques for 12 months maturation.

Opaque black purple colour with black purple hue. Lifted nose with dried apricot top note, followed by violets, plum, spice, mocha and liquorice. The palate is mouthfilling with an excellent ‘joosy’ quality. Flavours of ripe plum, liquorice and dried apricot fill the palate, with the Viognier component driving the flavour profile. Fine grained tannins. Long aftertaste of black pepper, dried apricot, plum and liquorice allsorts, with black pepper reappearing as a final farewell!.
Cellar 3-4 years (2010-2011)
Alc/Vol: 14.5%

Other Reviews...
The 2006 The Laughing Magpie is composed of 94% Shiraz and 6% Viognier. Deep crimson/violet in color, it offers up notes of cherry, ginger, black tea, tar, and blueberry. Medium to full-bodied, layered flavors of cherry, blueberry, and dark chocolate make an appearance accompanied by ripe tannin and excellent concentration leading to a long, refined finish. It will benefit from 3-4 years of cellaring and drink well through 2020. D’Arenberg has been owned and operated by the Osborn family since its inception in 1912. The portfolio, with a focus on Rhone varietals, is wide-ranging and value-oriented from top to bottom.
92 Points
Drink 2010 - 2020
Jay Miller - Wine Advocate #173 Oct 2007

Rich, velvety, luscious fruit flavours saying more about McLaren Vale than viognier; chocolate rather than apricot; however, no niggles about the wine. Drink 2020
Rating 94
James Halliday - 2009 Australian Wine Companion