From the South Australia Mclaren Vale this wine had drink now or over the next 5-8 years on the back label. I reckon this estimate was spot on as the wine had lost a lot of its fruit leaving very dry tannins and dominant liquorice overtones. The wine certainly complimented the beef dish prepared for the night, but in all fairness, it should have been drunk several years ago.

If you have any in your cellar, drink it immediately. The wine used to be available through the Wine Society and lately Corporate Direct has been selling Cabernet Merlot and Cabernet Savignon 2004 for $16.95. We've found the brand to be reliable and good value for money.