2007 Gemtree "Bloodstone" Shiraz-Viognier McLaren Vale South Australia

91 points from Stephen Tanzer's IWC: "Inky ruby. Cracked pepper and raspberry on the nose, with suave mineral and spice undertones. Lively, finely etched red fruit flavors gain depth and sweetness with air, picking up notes of licorice and violet pastille. Juicy and alluring, with excellent finishing lift and clarity. This is delicious now." 93 points from James Halliday's Wine Companion: "The co-fermentation of 5% viognier lifts the mouthfeel of the wine without riding over its regional dark chocolate undertones; the two forces join together rather than fight, giving the wine good palate-feel and thrust; an adult Cherry Ripe." Gemtree has continued to impress me with the value and quality of wine they have been producing from their 340 acres of organically farmed land, which is now being converted to being 100% biodynamic. The 2007 "Bloodstone" Shiraz, which is co-fermented with 5% Viognier, has lifted aromatics of subtle peach/nectarine and floral notes that mingle with blue and blackberry fruit and a hint of mocha. On the palate, the wine is juicy and supported by good acidity, with fine grained soft tannins that give a sense of structure to the wine that leads to a long finish. This really sings of McLaren Vale fruit. (Jim Chanteloup, K&L Australian wine buyer)