Rosemount Estate Shiraz Cabernet 2004

Here we have another Australian wine. The Rosemount Estate "diamond label" is considered sort of the entry-level - the Toyota Corolla - of the Rosemount Estate wines. It's the one you are most likely to find commerically available, and the one most likely to be whipped out at your friend's next party. Should this make it less valued? I don't think so.

I recently read a review of the Rosemount Estates "diamond label" wines which said "the Diamond Label range seems rather formulaic with ubiquitously ripe fruit, rich texture and the standard application of American Oak. Nevertheless, for those looking for a reliable bottle brimming with fruit and flavor, a wine from the Diamond Label range can be a good buy." Is "formulaic" a bad thing if it produces a good wine? Again, I don't think so.

We found this to be an excellent cabernet/shiraz blend, bursting with grape, plum and full berry flavors. The wine was smooth and nicely blended, and worked as well with the chips and salsa as it did with the main course. As I said in an earlier posting, I haven't yet had a bad Australian wine. While critics may find this wine "formulaic," we plain-Jane wine drinkers gave this particular wine a thumbs up. Plus, it's a best buy at under $10 a bottle.

“What is the definition of a good wine? It should start and end with a smile.” - William Sokolin