Before we get too far need to tell you that the $15 is more of a sale rather than retail price. This is probably more of an $17-18 bottle. Even though it is slightly over the Wine Witch $15 ceiling, it is totally worth it.
The Shiraz name made me first think that this wine was from Australia. I tasted it without seeing the bottle and immediately realized that this did not taste like an Austrialian Shiraz. Don’t get the wrong impression – the Wine Witch loves the “in your face” quality of most Australian wines. However, there is a time to be a grown up and this is a very grown up wine.
It turns out Darling is a South African producer, which was my “AHA” moment. South African wine are sooo worth seeking out. In my mind they produce wines that fall between New World cheekiness and Old World restraint – the best of both really.
The 2005 Onyx Shiraz unfolds slowly like a great novel. There is lovely dark fruit and mocha in the nose. The dark fruits carry through upon tasting but the mocha turns into more of a spicy cocoa. There is definitely oak, but it is very well integrated. There are no edges here – very smooth and almost velvety on the tongue. It finishes quite long with a hint of leather.
The Onyx Darling Shiraz may be a bit of a challenge to locate. If you find it, you will be well rewarded. The Wine Witch does not award many 5’s, so pay attention to this one.
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I’ve checked around found it available on a few sites most price around $16.00 but I agree this is so special that once in a while a post for a wine so exceptional is ok to bend the witch’s rules no?