McWilliam’s Hanwood Estate Shiraz 2005

Price: $11
Maker: McWilliam’s Hanwood Estate, New South Wales, Australia
Varietal: Shiraz
Packaging: 750 ml bottle, natural cork
Alcohol: 13.5%
Our Rating: 8.5 out of 10

We picked up a couple of bottles of McWilliam’s Hanwood Estate Shiraz 2005 when we spotted it on sale for nearly half price. We don’t buy multiples too often - there are just too many other wines to try and to write about. In this case, though, we almost regret not picking up a few more at the $6 - $7 sale price. This Shiraz has a powerful and pleasant nose, full of juicy berries and spice with a hint of licorice. The flavors were plum and blackberry, with a bit of chocolate. There was very light pepper in the wine’s long, slightly acidic finish. Shortly after opening, this Shiraz was pleasant but not overly distinguished. Surprisingly, the next day it had improved with deeper and more complex flavors. So, give this wine a chance to breathe.