Notes from Monday's presentation of wines for the International Wine and Food Society Syrah dinner.
Clos Marguerite Sauvignon Blanc 2008 - From Marlborough, NZ. More sweet pepper than guava on the nose, although there's a bit of an unripe aspect of that fruit showing. Lean but with good fruit on the palate. Dry and crisp on the finish. A very good Sauvignon Blanc in my opinion.
Gregorio Syrah-Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Selection 2006 - From China! Looks like Pinot Noir. Oxidized!
Woodstock The Stocks Shiraz 2006 - Very good nose. Chocolate and coffee. Lovely balance. There's a streak of acidity which makes it food friendly. Young but very drinkable due to rather soft tannins. There's a little oak on the finish but it's not a problem. Excellent wine.
Sequel Syrah 2005 - From Washington. Made by John Duval of Penfolds fame. A little hot on the nose. Plummy fruit but quite dry. Spicy. Medium-bodied. Approachable. Quite good.