The red wines start with the 2006 The Feral Fox Pinot Noir sourced from Adelaide Hills. It was fermented with native yeasts and aged for 9 months in 40% new French oak. Medium ruby-colored, it offers up aromas of cinnamon, strawberry, raspberry, and cherry. This is followed by a medium-bodied wine with a firm, slightly tannic mid-palate, sweet fruit, and moderate length. Drink it over the next 4-6 years.
D’Arenberg has been owned and operated by the Osborn family since its inception in 1912. The portfolio, with a focus on Rhone varietals, is wide-ranging and value-oriented from top to bottom.
Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552; www.darenberg.com.au; Also tasted: 2005 The Stump Jump Shiraz (82), 2005 The Custodian Grenache (84), 2005 Sticks and Stones Tempranillo, Grenache, Souzao (84)