The 2007 Aussie Salute is composed of 48% Grenache, 47% Shiraz, and 5% Viognier. Purple-colored, it offers up a fruity nose of cherry and blueberry along with rose petals. On the palate it resembles a quality Cotes du Rhone with its vibrant fruit, lively acidity, and racy style. Drink this pleasant effort with bistro cuisine over the next three years. Shoofly is a joint venture of Old Bridge Cellars and Ben Riggs.Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; Tel. (707) 258-9552

A blend of nearly equal parts Grenache and Shiraz, with 5% Viognier, the 2007 Aussie Salute shows off opening aromas of maple syrup and cedar, then opens up to show more cherry scents. It’s medium-bodied and rather loosely knit, with fruity cherry and cedar flavors destined for early consumption.——J.C.(11/1/2009)—— 85