Winery - Spice Route
* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Deep purple in color, this wine smells of eraser, dill and cherries. Vanilla and graham cracker hide a deep core of dark berry fruit, and a bit of spice adds to the mix. The mouthfeel is supple, but has solid tannins to support it. Imported by Vineyard Brands.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
The brand is well known, but this wine does not live up to the hype. It is fat, full, oaky and toasty, while the fruit seems too soft for the layers of wood, and throws the whole wine out of balance. Imported by Vineyard Brands.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
This Mourvèdre has a lovely nose of chocolate and mint and is both soft and layered. Flavors of blackberry are jammy and integrated, and there’s a facet of spice, all of which creates an easy-drinking and accessible wine. A softer wine with character.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Very tart berry Syrah fruit with espresso, tar and clove accents struggles against overbearing earthiness. The funky element sometimes called South African terroir, which variously appears as iodine, vitamin, metal, or dung, can work in modest doses, just as barnyardiness can in Burgundy. But not to this degree.
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Spice Route Syrah - 2000
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
A complex, individual wine from South Africa that boasts earthy, horsey aromas mixed with briary scents of blackberries and eucalyptus. The earth flavors persist right through to the peppery finish, joined by hints of black olive and hickory smoke.
Tags:
Spice Route Syrah - 1999
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Reviewers debated whether this bouquet was more redolent of cardboard, green beans or fresh fish. In any case, the vegetal-tanginess that the aromas promise shows up again on the palate. Finishes sharp, with tobacco notes.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Brambly plum and red berry aromas and a lush, full palate make this both approachable and great to drink on its own. Plum, berry and pepper on the palate are smooth and elegant, and the finish is soft and poised.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Allspice, cinnamon, clove and mint aromas are followed by a slightly sweet blend of vanilla oak and red berry. The wine has a peppery base and a spicy finish that gives it balance and poise. The acid and tannins are also all in check. Hold for a few years for added enjoyment.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
More Rhône varietals are making it to the U.S. from South Africa, and for good reason. This Mourvèdre showcases plenty of ripe, plummy fruit in the nose and mouth, with additional aromas of mineral and lemon. Plenty of tannins back the full, lush mouthfeel. A bit of warmth shows on the chocolaty finish. Imported by Vineyard Brands.
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* Expert NoteJanuary 12, 2012
Deep aromas of smoke, loam, grilled meat and salinity provide a wrap for red fruit that carries hints of leather, toast and cedar. The salinity and smoke pair with char on the finish, while dusty tannins add structure. —K.F.
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