Also recommended: 2005 Riesling Eden Valley (86).
Other wines tasted: 2003 Merlot Barossa*. (Zeal Wine Imports, San Francisco, CA)
2005 B3 Wines Semillon Barossa
($15) Pale gold. Peach, pear and yellow plum aromas are complemented by mint and quinine. Crisp apple and pear flavors display energetic spice and minerality, finishing bright and racy. This clocks in at a moderate 12.5% alcohol and would make an excellent aperitif or companion to unadorned shellfish.
2003 B3 Wines Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvedre Barossa
($21) Dark red. Red and dark berry aromas are complicated by vanilla, tar, licorice and graphite. Ripe raspberry and strawberry jam flavors display good energy and depth, gaining sweetness with air. This GSM blend verges on jammy, but finishes with mint and mocha notes and good length.
2002 B3 Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Barossa
($19) Dark red. Red- and blackcurrant aromas are deepened by tobacco, dark chocolate and espresso. Rich and full, with chewy dark berry flavors, soft acidity and slow-building mocha and vanilla elements. Strikes a nice balance of earthy and sweet notes, finishing with suggestions of smoky cherry and plum.
