Swill or Swell: Episode 24

Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet

watch the episode here

Welcome to Swill or Swell, a weekly series where I taste grocery store wines and let you know if they’re worth the buck or just meant for the drain! 

CAVEAT! As you read this, please keep in mind that wine is subjective! This means that everyone enjoys different things and something I like might not be something you like and vice versa. I’ll be as objective as I can with facts about the wine’s quality, but in the end if your opinion differs from mine...that’s perfectly fine! Wine is only worth drinking if YOU like drinking it!

LET’S INTRODUCE THE WINE

Today I’m trying the Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet. It’s very unique, and I’ve been wanting to try an Australian wine here! I picked this up from Total Wine for about $12.99. Let’s give it a try!

PENFOLDS KOONUNGA HILL SHIRAZ CABERNET FUN FACTS

Let’s start with the Shiraz varietal.

• Shiraz is typically very dark in color, which makes it stand out.
  
• There’s a lot of unique savory notes that come with each Shiraz.
  
• Shiraz Cabernet is known as a traditional blend in Australia.
  

Let’s talk about the South Australian region.

• This is one of the six states in Australia.
  
• This region is known as the engine of the wine industry. Most of it is made in the southeast corner, as it’s a bit cooler there (due to being surrounded by two large gulfs) compared to other areas there.

WINE TASTING NOTES

Look: This is Dark in color. I’d say a light ruby type of color.
Smell: I immediately get some black plums, blackberries, blueberries and fig. There was also a distinct iron smell when I was pouring it. I’m also getting slight notes of chocolate and fennel.
Taste: Initially it was too “tight” for me. By this I mean, I didn’t want to close my mouth with it because I needed more air. After sitting out, it now has a nice acidity, and is very balanced with the alcohol. It does have a punch in the beginning, but mellows out. There’s a nice fruity taste that I enjoy.
Think:
Food Pairing - This wine is calling for red meat. You could also pair this with hearty grilled vegetables like eggplant and mushroom.
Occasion - This is versatile because I could see bringing this to a summer barbecue, but also cozying up with this on the couch in the winter for a night in.
Rating - Initially, I was leaning towards swill. Only because it had just been opened. But, after letting it sit out, it seems to be getting better! So, I would give this a swell!

Want to learn more? Check out my Instagram every Thursday at 5PM PST for a new episode of Swill or Swell! Have a wine you’d like me to taste? Write your request in the comments below or send me a message on Instagram!

Cheers!