Pillar Box Red

2004 Pillar Box Red ($11) -- Padthway AUS. The rep made a big deal about getting a case as it is somewhat allocated or restricted to certain accounts. Color is dark red almost purple; earthy aromas; full-fruit with maybe a touch of RS with tannins and a medium finish. At first it is meaty and full-bodied and then after 30 minutes it softens up. Very ripe. Would go well with big game!

Can't find much on production notes but the K&L site offers this:

90 points Robert Parker: "A fabulous value, this 20,000 case blend assembled by renowned Barossa winemaker Chris Ringland, is composed of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Shiraz and 11% Merlot, primaraly from young vines. Ringland has rarely worked with such huge quantities, but he has kept the wine in tank with a little exposure to American and French oak, bottled it unfined and unfiltered, and finished it with a screw cap. It boasts luscious black currant fruit intermixed with smoke, herbs, and cedar. Richly fruity, opulent, and medium to full-bodied, it is one of the great wine bargains of the world." (10/05)

Well now I know why it is tough to get. 90 points and $10 for a 20,000 case production wine! Bet next year it is at least $13.