Tasting- "Black Opal Shiraz 2011"

Black Opal Shiraz 2011

• Variety: 100% Shiraz
• Region: Limestone Coast, Landhorne Creek, Barossa Valley
• Country: Australia
• Year: 2011
• Price: $5.95
• Shop review:
• "The Black Opal wines are sourced from vineyards found in South Australia along the Limestone Coast, at Landhorne Creek and in the infamous Barossa Valley.  Black Opal Shiraz is rich red in the glass.  Aromas of blackberry, pepper, and spice followed with rich plum flavors round out the palate.  Soft tannins give structure to the fruit-driven palate."
• Note: Wines from Australia often feature/taste like darker fruits.
• My review:
• To be honest, I was not a fan of this wine.  It smelled very strongly of spice.  The wine itself tasted like pepper and berry.  It was also very smokey or maybe oak-y.  It is definitely strong and full-bodied, and not for someone who is just beginning to drink red wine like me!  I thought it was very overwhelming.
• I did not have this wine with food.