Margaret Swaine’s Wine Picks: Delicious bottles from Down Under

These reds from Down Under released in Vintages on Aug. 18 are smooth and ready to drink. Find them via WineAlign.com/MargaretsPicks.

Tar & Roses Shiraz 2010
$21.95 (89 Points)
From grapes grown on the deep red Cambrian soils of the cooler Heathcote area in Victoria, this Oz red is medium full and smooth with ripe blackberry and spice flavours. Rounded on the palate with hints of chocolate, it has a long, savoury finish. Have with grilled red meats.

No. 8 Wines Marnie’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
$24.95 (88 Points)
Canadians Marnie Griffith and Peter Whitney purchased this vineyard in Hawke’s Bay in 2009. Marnie died while pursuing their dreams in New Zealand and this wine is a homage to her. It’s gentle, elegant and smooth. Medium bodied, it has cassis and red berry flavours along with earthy notes of sweet tobacco, minerals and herbs. A nice match for grilled duck breast.

Oyster Bay Pinot Noir 2011
$19.95 (88 Points)
From Marlborough on New Zealand’s South Island, this pinot noir is pale ruby in colour with an attractive, earthy, ripe cherry nose (hints of cigar box, too). Matured in a mix of new and older French barrels, the oak is well integrated and subtle. Tangy ripe cherry flavours and silky tannins make it a smooth, flavourful tipple ready for plank barbecued salmon.