Grant Burge 2002 Balthasar SA2004 is the first release of a new wine; it’s a Shiraz with 7% Viognier and sells for $32 at CD. Purple in colour with a bright hue, there is sweet honeysuckle and spice overshadowing typical Shiraz components. Ample in weight, the abundant, dusty, drying tannins back a solid structure and the obvious fruit contributes a diverse complexity. An upfront hit of stewed apricot sweetness goes into savoury black fruit flavours, spice and plenty of meatiness. It is a good food wine and whilst I do not like the style, it is a fairly serious attempt at this blend. It should develop well and think I would enjoy it when mature. Rated as Recommended with *** for value, the rating should improve as the wine matures in 2007+.

Copyright © Ric Einstein 2003