Another really big wine from the really prolific winemaker Chris Ringland....

Big R Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 Barossa Valley, Australia $32
What the Wine Critics Thought: Wine Advocate 92 Points
Purple/black colored, it delivers a complex bouquet of pain grille, smoke, plum, black currant, and a hint of licorice. Full-bodied, ripe and focused, on the palate licorice and chocolate come more to the forefront. This opulent effort has a very long finish. It will evolve in the cellar for several years and drink well through 2020.

What We Thought: Black as night, with a nose of ripe, brambly fruit, this wine has a palate of ultra-ripe, full-bodied blackberry fruit along with some dark chocolate notes all supported by some very supple tannins that lead to a velvety smooth finish.

July 23, 2008