A ‘super Tuscan’ is a blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. You may want to call our 2005 Cab-Shiraz a ‘super Rhone.’ Or perhaps a ‘Rhondeaux,’ considering this brawny blend is a marriage of the principal varietals of the Bordeaux and Rhone regions of France. The fruit for this binominal blend, however, comes from our one-acre estate Shiraz vineyard and the Cabernet from Speedy Creek, a prized patch of Cabernet high on the terraced slopes of Mt. St. Helena.

In every way this wine is well-proportioned, both in its constituent varietals of Shiraz (50%) and Cabernet Sauvignon(50%) in the wine’s lush ripe fruit, balanced acidity, and underlying tannic structure. Aromas of pipe smoke, leather, and aniseed harmonize nicely with flavorful notes of dried black currant, boysenberry, and chocolate. With its creamy texture, and long layered finish, this wine is the ideal complement for rib-eye steaks, wine-braised short ribs, lamb stew, or any pasta dish. Drink now through 2015.