Hare’s Chase Red Blend

For the difference in price, it’s a no-brainer that consumers should be searching for the 2005 Barossa Red Blend, a forward, supple, soulful, American oak-aged concoction of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Shiraz, Merlot, and Tempranillo. Peppery, spicy, new saddle leather, red currant, cedar, and blackberry aromas and flavors along with an excellent texture, forward style, and luscious fruit suggest it should drink well for 3–4 years.

The interesting blend of 61% Shiraz, 23% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Tempranillo is what grabbed me to try this wine. This is the first Tempranillo that I’ve seen in Australia. The nose has sweet fruit like blackberry and plum wafting up; that turns into ripe flavors carried along by the mild tannins. The finish is velvety smooth with some spice. Perfect with grilled chicken or pork.