McGuigan Black Label Shiraz 2008

After last week’s success with the 2007 Rosemount Estates Shiraz, I was hoping lighting would strike twice, if not at the same vintage, at least with the same varietal. So on a whim I picked up a bottle of McGuigan 2008 Black Label Shiraz. After drinking it, I’m opting for where the lighting struck first.

In the glass it looked rich and the berry and spice smells got me going. Tasting it there were the berries, a small amount of spice, and, well, that was about it. Some low soft tannins kicked in but there wasn’t much else. While smooth and easy to drink, it lacked complexity and came off rather one dimensional. I’ve not plumbed the depths of Shiraz but the other ones I’ve tasted were better.

Overall I didn’t really enjoy this wine. I probably won’t buy this particular mass market brand, although from what I read, McGuigan’s has other brands that are better. I’ll have to keep an eye out for those and give them a whirl for comparison sake. Over all, 77 points. Those liking uncomplicated red wines are sure to rate this higher.