Tasting Note: Middle of Everywhere Shiraz 2006

Well, here's a label I simply couldn't leave in the store.  My thinking was that if the wine in the bottle was anywhere near as interesting as the label was, I would have something worth drinking.

Upon closer examination, I discovered that Ad Hoc "Middle of Everywhere" Shiraz Frankland River 2006 is made by Larry Cherubino.  Larry has extensive winemaking experience, first with Hardy's Tintara, then with Houghton in Western Australia, and now is on his own producing wines of distinction.  Along the way he also spent some time as a "Flying Winemaker" in many regions of the world.

Larry has received many awards for his work, culminating with his winery recently being named "Winery of the Year" in James Halliday's Wine Companion 2011.

This wine is very sophisticated in style.  It is somewhat different than what you might expect an Aussie Shiraz to be, however, I think that wines like this will help redefine what can be done with wine in Australia.

"Medium garnet color.  Meaty, earthy scents emanate from the glass, along with white pepper, smoke, and plum jam.  Medium bodied, elegant, and refreshing, this bone dry wine has excellent structure and refinement.  Chocolate comes out on the long finish, accompanied by fine tannins.  Northern Rhone body double.  Excellent.  Ready to go right now. "  14.5%, Stelvin, $28.

Available at Everything Wine and other private outlets.

- Randy Saunders

www.larrycherubino.com