THE MOST SURPRISING SHIRAZ OF 2010

Jasmin is a great maker of Rhone Valley shiraz, so why the big surprise?

2 reason; first of all 2008 is not supposed to be a great vintage but this wine is far better than the 2007! Secondly, the wine seems far more seductive, far more opulent, sexy, classy, perfumed and beguiling than my barrel tasting earlier this year indicated. It's a stunning wine that I whole-heartedly recommend. One of the best young Jasmins I have tasted! Randall.

Vivid red. Fresh strawberry and raspberry on the nose, with notes of white pepper and minerals adding verve. Light-bodied, slightly tart red fruit flavors are complemented by subtle floral and orange peel notes and show no rough edges. Seems more pinot noir than syrah, with silky texture and a fresh, tangy finish. JOSH RAYNOLDS