I automatically assume "Superstar Wines" are terrible values, so it took some convincing to buy wine from a person who calls himself "The Shark". That convincing came in the form of a Wine Spectator "Wine of the Week" review, so I gave this wine a shot.
The 2003 Greg Norman Limestone Coast Cabernet Merlot is mostly Cabernet, with other vintages approaching 90%, so the anti-Merlot crowd need not worry. This ruby-hued wine was very Bordeaux-like on the nose, with a nice leathery/peppery start followed by aromas of rasberry, violet, earth, vanilla, and smoke that were interesting and every-changing. The palate continued the Bordeaux theme - very well balanced, great tannins, nicely integrated. This was not a fruit-forward Aussie! This was a full-bodied wine with substantial length - accessible now (after a good decant), it would probably benefit from a few years in the cellar. This would probably pair well with many dishes, but my preferences would be a steak off the grill or a nice winter beef stew. Score 17.5/20, Price C$24.75
I have also tried Victoria Chardonnay before, and it was a very nice wine.
Overall, while Greg Norman's wines are priced a few dollars above the competition, there is a consistency of quality in those I have tasted. Greg Norman's wines could be the ideal 'business meal' wines - impress your client without thinking too hard and without blowing the company budget. Cheers!
The 2003 Greg Norman Limestone Coast Cabernet Merlot is mostly Cabernet, with other vintages approaching 90%, so the anti-Merlot crowd need not worry. This ruby-hued wine was very Bordeaux-like on the nose, with a nice leathery/peppery start followed by aromas of rasberry, violet, earth, vanilla, and smoke that were interesting and every-changing. The palate continued the Bordeaux theme - very well balanced, great tannins, nicely integrated. This was not a fruit-forward Aussie! This was a full-bodied wine with substantial length - accessible now (after a good decant), it would probably benefit from a few years in the cellar. This would probably pair well with many dishes, but my preferences would be a steak off the grill or a nice winter beef stew. Score 17.5/20, Price C$24.75
I have also tried Victoria Chardonnay before, and it was a very nice wine.
Overall, while Greg Norman's wines are priced a few dollars above the competition, there is a consistency of quality in those I have tasted. Greg Norman's wines could be the ideal 'business meal' wines - impress your client without thinking too hard and without blowing the company budget. Cheers!
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2 comments:
Hi, Joe! Just swinging by to check out your site and saw your review for this wine. I have a bottle of the 2002, and I think it's had some unfavorable reviews for some of the reasons you highlight, namely it is in an Old World style. But I love that. Thanks!
Hi Dr. D.
Yes, I suspect that old world style is likely to throw off a few Aussie lovers. The Greg Norman Chardonnay was definitely more new world, however. Cheers!
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