2008 Marquis Philips Shiraz

Chris Ringland stands at the summit of world Shiraz producers (Robert Parker places him in the same leugue as Guigal, Chapoutier and Roman Bratasiuk of Clarendon Hills). Most will know Ringland for his part in Rockford wines. He presently has his finger in several pies, including as consultant winemaker for Pillar Box and U.S. Importer Dan Philips' 'Marquis Philips' brand, taking over from Sarah and Sparky Marquis who left the enterprise to start up 'Mollydooker.'

A real winter’s day red
Opaque black dark red colour with very deep dark red black hue. The nose displays aromas of liquorice, ripe blackberry, dark plum and confectionary. The palate delivers enormous weight and richness for it’s miserly price point and is a real heavy hitter. Opulent favours of rich ripe blackberry, dark plum & liquorice followed by some spicy blackpepper characters on the back palate. Velvet smooth tannin structure. Long aftertaste of ripe blackberry, liquorice, dark plum & spice.
Cellar 2-3 years (2012-2013)
Alc 16.0% Other Reviews...
With veteran vigneron Chris Ringland now in charge of the winemaking, I can state unequivocally that this is the finest collection of Marquis Philips wines since the label was started in 2000. Nevertheless, these wines will be controversial because all but one of the non-Roogle wines is over 16% alcohol. The small but vocal crowd of Australia bashers will have a field day taking these wines to task as they do with the Mollydooker wines (which seem to sell out anyway). Ringland is concerned about flavor and balance which is what these wines are all about. Those seeking low alcohol, subtlety, and finesse should of course look elsewhere. Those who want a big mouthful of sensual pleasure should read on. The Roogle Series is meant to be a value-priced introduction to the Marquis Philips upper level wines. The Marquis Philips wines are predominantly sourced from McLaren Vale while the Roogle wines are multi-regional.
The 2008 Shiraz offers up aromas of cigar box, damp earth, smoked meat, bacon, and blueberry. Packed with flavor on the palate, it is full-bodied, round, and altogether pleasure-bent. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.
91 points
Jay Miller - Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate