Gems from “Down Under”
The holidays have passed — hopefully filled with good times, family and friends that warmed the season. Presents are unwrapped, put away; and, if you have young children, they could even be broken by now! With the season passed, what would be really good is to find great drinking wine that doesn’t cost a lot.
Well, here are a couple of Australian go-to wines from Mollydooker that are in wide distribution and – in my estimation – deliver a great bang for the buck. I have been drinking Mollydooker wines since the very first vintage in 2007. One is a Shiraz (called Syrah in the US, but it’s the same grape) and the other a Cabernet. These descriptors and ratings are from Wine Spectator.
“The Boxer” – Shiraz – South Australia – 2013
91 points | $28 | 13,160 cases imported | Red
“Broad, spicy and dense at the core, with plum and blackberry fruit playing against toasty, spicy overtones and polished tannins as the finish persists. Drink now through 2019.” – H.S.
“The Maitre D’” – Cabernet Sauvignon – McLaren Vale – 2013
92 points | $28 | 3,187 cases imported | Red
“Rich, ripe and generous, with plump blackberry, black cherry, licorice and mint flavors that flow smoothly into a long and expressive finish. Has depth and power. Drink now through 2020.” – H.S.
Both wines have been imported in significant quantities and hopefully you will find them in a wine store near you. On my travels, they are go-to wines for freshness and depth of flavor. Mollydooker consistently delivers an easy drinking wine that is packed with fruit and accessible upon just opening the bottle. You will find them with screw caps, but do not let that color your view before you taste.
You may be wondering where the name “Mollydooker” came from. Well, the owners/winemakers are Australian, and he and his wife are both left handed. Mollydooker is Aussie slang for left-handed. These wines will not let you down, if what you are looking for is something that has depth of flavor and is easy on the pocket book.
Look for them in your neighborhood, mate!
Enjoy!