Jacob's Creek Shiraz Cabernet

Bill Dowd photo

In 1847, Orlando wines founder Johann Gramp planted one of the first vineyards along Jacob's Creek in the Barossa Valley of South Eastern Australia. The name of the creek has become synonymous with quality wines.

• Jacob's Creek Shiraz Cabernet 2004

This is a fine blend -- 53% shiraz and 47% cabernet sauvignon -- that provides notes of tobacco, leather and oak along with forthright plum and berry nuances.

I like the medium-bodied structure that makes this a good choice to accompany a bold cheese platter (smoked gouda, sharp cheddar and tangy gorgonzola on the one I put together to go with this wine), chicken or pasta dishes, and even some red meat dishes that aren't too heavily sauced.

Retails in the $7-$9 bargain range.

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