Reviewed: 1 March 2012

A couple of weeks ago, all the wines reviewed here were available at either Liquorland or Woolworths for $4.00 – $5.00 per bottle. I had to find out for my self if the wines were actually drinkable.

I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised.

Let me make one thing clear, these are not great wines. What they are is tremendous value. The De Bortoli shiraz/cabernet in particular is an absolute bargain. I would not hesitate in having a glass if it were offered to me.

NB. It is very important to get the exact wines mentioned here, as there is significant variation within each range.

Reviewed

De Bortoli – Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon – Sacred Hill – 2010 (16.7). Quality fruit on the nose and palate. This is dense and textured, with mint over plummy fruit. Chewy tannins to close. This is a smart wine that has been very well made. Bargain!

Whispers – Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot – 2010 (16.5). More structure here. The nose is subdued, but there is reasonable fruit quality. Slightly chewy textural components fill out the finish. Well made and interesting enough to make a reasonable mid-week drink.

De Bortoli – Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot – Sacred Hill – 2009 (16.2). Not much on the nose, but quite an attractive palate, with fresh berry fruit and a soft, lingering finish. There is a touch of oak to close and some menthol fruit develops.

Mc William’s – Shiraz/Merlot – Inheritance – 2010 (16.2). Another solid effort that combines reasonable fruit with very good handling. Length is good and the tannins are remarkably fine for a wine of this price. The flavours linger with plump fruit and a touch of candy.

Penfolds – Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon – Rawsons Retreat – 2010 (16). Attractive nose that shows red fruits, plum and spice. Bright fruit that is more primary, with savoury, almost sappy characters to close. A touch of oak too.

Warburn Estate – Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc – Gossips – 2011 (16.2). Tropical fruit and grassy notes. Lemony acid adds life. This is fresh, vibrant and a good drink to boot.

Hardys – Chardonnay – R&R – 2010 (16). Some peach on the nose. Peach fruit on the palate with a touch of viscosity and refreshing finish. Flavours linger and there is even a hint of oak. Commercial, but so what. You also get a one litre bottle!

Penfolds – Chardonnay – Rawsons Retreat – 2011 (16). Toasty oak and a touch of lees combine with fruit that is actually of reasonable quality. Not complex, but good length.

Penfolds – Cabernet Sauvignon – Rawsons Retreat – 2011 (16). Quite a savoury, old-fashioned nose. Relatively lean fruit, but the flavours linger on the finish.

Mc William’s – Riesling – Inheritance – 2010 (15.5). Fresh, sherbet-like nose of some interest. Good acidity and a touch of zest on the palate with good line and length. 3 bronze medals.