This line of wines, founded by 80-year-old Robert Oatley, who originated the Rosemount Estate brand, marks a return to U.S. soil from the Australian impresario.

A selection of varietals — Chardonnay, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio,  a Cabernet-Merlot blend, and a Sangiovese Rose — are being made available, all with an avowed “modern” approach to winemaking.

Oatley’s Shiraz is very simple and easy-drinking, a fine choice for a weeknight pizza dinner or another simple meal. The wine is very dry, features a solid amount of black pepper wrapped around a dark yet mild plum core. It goes down easy but lacks much in the way of complexity, which makes it a real crowd-pleaser but not much of a memorable one. At $17, this actually feels a bit overpriced vs. the Aussie competition of late.

B+ / $17

2007 Robert Oatley Shiraz South Australia

$17

8.5

Rating

8.5/10

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