2007 Maxwell 'Four Roads' Shiraz Grenache Viognier

This is a terrific summery red from a fine family producer in McLaren Vale. I say summery because although it has richness, concentration and extract, there's seductive fleshy texture, ripe juicy blackberry flavours – all balanced and approachable. So there's the grunt of full flavour and some softness to make it more appealing as a red drink at this time of the year. The blend is shiraz (85%) which is co-fermented with viognier (5%), and grenache (10%). Incidentally, Maxwell are celebrating 30 years of wine production this year, so there's another reason to try one of their wines. (And yes, they do have a shiraz called Maxwell's 'Silver Hammer'.)

Rating: Bloody Good

Cost: $ 19.95

Winemaker: Mark Maxwell, Alexia Roberts

Wide availability in all Australian states. www.maxwellwines.com.au

Reviewed: 11 December 2009

Comments

[Jesse]

I loved the Four Roads '06! I bought up as many as I could find at the local (3) when I found out the '07 was hitting the shelves. I also attended Maxwell's 30th Anniversary vertical tasting...supurb! One of my favourite McLaren Vale makers.