Bella Ridge Shiraz 2007 is a red wine from Australia, likely from a warm-climate region known for producing bold and full-bodied Shiraz wines, such as the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale. Shiraz is Australia’s signature red variety, known for its rich fruit flavors, spicy notes, and aging potential. The 2007 vintage of Bella Ridge Shiraz is likely to be a mature wine, offering both the vibrant fruit of youth and the depth and complexity that comes with bottle age.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: The wine likely has a deep, dark ruby or purple color, with hints of garnet or brick red at the edges, a sign of its age and maturation.
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Aroma: On the nose, Bella Ridge Shiraz 2007 offers a complex bouquet of dark fruits, such as blackberry, plum, and black cherry, with the hallmark Shiraz spice of black pepper and clove. The wine may also show additional earthy or savory notes, such as leather or tobacco, which are typical of a wine that has had some time to develop. There could be subtle oak influence as well, with hints of vanilla, mocha, or a touch of cedar, adding depth to the aromatic profile. Some secondary characteristics from aging, such as dried herbs or a slight smokiness, might be present as well.
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Palate: On the palate, the wine is likely full-bodied, with rich and concentrated flavors of dark berries, plums, and cherries. The typical spiciness of Shiraz, including black pepper and licorice, is balanced by the fruitiness, and there may be a touch of chocolate or coffee from oak aging. The tannins, while still present, are likely to be well-integrated and smoother due to the wine’s age, offering a rounded, velvety mouthfeel. The acidity is typically balanced, contributing to the wine’s structure and providing freshness that lifts the fruit and spice flavors.
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Finish: The finish is likely long and persistent, with lingering flavors of dark fruit, spice, and earthy elements. The smooth tannins and balanced acidity help the wine finish cleanly and elegantly, with a pleasant aftertaste of black fruit and subtle oak.
Aging Potential:
The 2007 vintage of Bella Ridge Shiraz is already well-aged, and it is likely at or near its peak, offering a harmonious blend of youthful fruit and more mature, complex secondary characteristics. While it may still have some life left, it is probably best enjoyed now to fully appreciate the balance and complexity that the wine has developed over the years. It’s a wine that has aged gracefully, with softened tannins and integrated flavors.
Food Pairing:
Bella Ridge Shiraz 2007 pairs well with rich, hearty dishes. It complements grilled meats, particularly beef or lamb, as well as roasted game meats like venison or duck. The wine would also be a great match for barbecued meats or dishes with rich, spicy flavors, such as chili, beef stew, or braised short ribs. Aged cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese would also pair nicely, as would charcuterie or grilled vegetables.
Overall Style:
Bella Ridge Shiraz 2007 is a rich, full-bodied red wine that showcases the bold, spicy character of Shiraz, along with the complexity that comes from aging. The wine is likely to have deep fruit flavors, with the addition of secondary earthy, savory, and oak-driven notes that add layers of interest. It’s a great example of an Australian Shiraz that has evolved beautifully with age, offering a smooth, balanced drinking experience with a long, satisfying finish. This wine would appeal to those who enjoy bold, structured reds with depth and maturity.
