A Rhone style blend with a petite (Syrah) twist.  I haven’t visited Zayante, and the label had a bit to say about organic farming… Does that mean the goats squach the grapes?  My taste buds thought so.  We were drinking this while watching “Bottle Shock”, and after about 45 mins couldn’t take it anymore.  I got up to open something else, and to my surprise found a bottle of chardonnay that had been sitting in the fridge since August.  It was an apropos recovery.

paid: $17

scored: 80

Somehow I doubt even 3 years in oak could take the edge off this Rioja (it was in fact matured for about 1 year in oak).  This is a good example of the importance of high quality fruit for making a high quality wine — and conversely, how marginal fruit makes for sharp wine.  If you are looking for a tasty Tempranillo, check out the Torremoron instead (from a different but nearby appellation).

paid: $13

scored: 80

A lot of people dig this wine and recommend it as a good value choice.  I don’t really agree.  I have been _much_ happier at this price point, to which this blog is testimony.  I found the Koonunga to be too sharp, and lacking in both fruit and finish.  3/4 of the bottle are presently sitting on my counter top, slowly decanting into a nice red wine vinegar.  I guess that says something:  even less worthy wines go into the stew or down the drain.

paid: $10

scored: 80