Ferngrove 2004 Dragon Shiraz

[anacostiakat]

I have had the Ferngrove Shiraz at about a sawbuck less and liked it better. :-(

Disappointing. But I do not seem to like the oakey spice that I find in this bottle. Reminds me of some Pinot Noir from the Russian River that I just can not stand.

Maybe it is the amount of spice that to me seems to overpower the berries and plum and just ruin it for me. :-D

Anyone else feel the same way?

[Colt45]

» Anyone else feel the same way?

I've never tried the Ferngrove, but in general, I feel the same. I really dislike a heavy

hand with the oak - just one reason I turned away from many California and

Australian wines some time ago.

As for the spice (I'm thinking black pepper), it has it's place, but to my palate, pinot

isn't one of them, though I think that where the grapes are grown plays a part.

I had a Chilean pinot not too long ago that was so peppery I might as well have been

drinking a malbec (which I love).

[havanaclub7]

I've never tried the Ferngrove before. One of my favorite Shiraz at the moment is called Terra Barossa by Thorn Clarke. It's a rich and wonderful fruit forward wine with lots of jammy flavors you would expect from a great Aussie Shiraz. Robert Parker scored the 2005 vintage a 91. It can be a little bit expensive depending on where you buy, but I've typically seen it on sale for about $18 a bottle.

Another nice Shiraz that can be had for a pretty good price is the Jip Jip Rocks Shiraz. Robert Parker also gave their 2005 vintage a 91 rating. Here is his description:

Jip Jip Rocks 2005 Shiraz Limestone Coast exhibits a deep ruby/purple color as well as attractive blueberry, black raspberry, and creosote characteristics, wonderful intensity, supple tannin, and a long finish.

Maybe Ken has a thought or two about these two Shiraz wines.