Friday 16 December 2011

Alpha Box & Dice Tarot 2009

This little wine is 100% Grenache which I think should be given more of a central role in the warmer climates.  Generally Shiraz is regarded as the icon with Cabernet coming in second but it is the conservative nature and growing cycle that make Grenache so good.  The variety doesn't need much water to survive like some other varieties and it can handle the extreme heat and still produce a juicy wine during our draught years.  In 2010 there was only 11,335 tonnes of Grenache picked which is not even 10% of total red wines produced in Australia.

Alpha Box & Dice Tarot 2009

This example is very friendly and easy to understand as you get flavours of cranberries, strawberries and red licorice soaked in cherry juice with a touch of cinnamon and steamed earth entering the mix. The wine is medium bodied with an inherent juiciness keeping me reaching for another glass.  The tannins are nice and light but there is a little alcohol warmth on the back palate. At this price it is an easy decision. Buy it and try it.

Alcohol: 15%
Price: $18
Rated: 87
Drink: Now to 3 years

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