The last of four new Brand’s Laira releases sent to me. I really enjoyed the One Seven One Cabernet, had plenty of time for the August Tide Dry Red and didn’t much appreciate the Stentiford’s Shiraz. This isn’t my sort of wine either but I realise there are still many consumers who will go for it. It’s a brawler - big and smooth with alcohol driven glycerol texture.
Flat fruits; plums, prunes and blackcurrants. Plenty of vanilla oak and a bit of mint lift. Alcohol heat mars the line and there’s certainly a warming sensation at the end. If you like ‘em hefty and can stand the heat then just ignore the score. 87 Average
Region: Coonawarra
Alcohol: 14.9%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $27
Tasted: March 2013