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90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Dark violet. Intensely floral nose offers pungent blackberry and cassis aromas underscored by exotic magnolia and baking spices. Sweet dark berry flavors are energized by Asian spice and mineral notes that linger impressively on the juicy finish. Lots of complexity for the money here." (July/Aug 07) Chook is Australian for chicken. And though germane this fact might be, it has nothing to do with this concentrated juicy little number from South Australia. As one might expect there is a black chicken on the label, but what really matters is the small proportion of white grapes in the bottle. Yes, that 5% viognier adds its special something in the form of femininity and perfume, just like in cote rotie.
The 2005 got 91 points from Robert Parker: "A bigger, richer version of the value-priced Woop Woop, this cuvee, which is made by the irrepressible Ben Riggs, is produced primarily from McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek fruit. The result is a fabulous value composed of 95% Shiraz and 5% Viognier that is aged in mostly used French oak for eight months. Its deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by serious blackberry and currant notes intermixed with pepper and spice. This wine offers high levels of seduction, lushness, and richness at a ridiculously low price. Enjoy it over the next 3-4 years."
The 2005 got 91 points from Robert Parker: "A bigger, richer version of the value-priced Woop Woop, this cuvee, which is made by the irrepressible Ben Riggs, is produced primarily from McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek fruit. The result is a fabulous value composed of 95% Shiraz and 5% Viognier that is aged in mostly used French oak for eight months. Its deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by serious blackberry and currant notes intermixed with pepper and spice. This wine offers high levels of seduction, lushness, and richness at a ridiculously low price. Enjoy it over the next 3-4 years."