d'Arenberg, The Amaranthine, Shiraz, 2013, 14.0% abv
Nose: strong purple grapes light on the grapeskins but both attenuate with air time, super-redundant purple fruits, and by induction aromatic iron from the tannins. Pushing it would be blackberries, really mature blueberries, cassis/black currants, and black cherries. Hint of paprika powder.
Palate: medium body, entry is grape juice and light purple grape candy, mid and back palate shows the purple grape candy, oak tannins, some eucalyptus and paprika seasoning, with time the saltiness and spiciness become more prevalent. Balanced between the grape elements and tannins, but that's it.
Finish: medium, grape candy, wood, some vines, dryness goes long.
Vernacular: nose is primary purple grapes. Medium bodied with mild acidity, grippy and somewhat integrated tannins that lead to a dry finish.
Somewhat of a one-trick pony, enjoyable, not really memorable. Paid a little under KRW₩80k, which is about USD$60. Regret.
Grade: C+
by starvinggigolo