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Published on July 15, 2007

It's a minefield out there, fraught with tax-mad bureaucrats and neo-prohibitionists doing everything possible to throttle tourism, entrepreneurs and all of us who enjoy the fermented fruit of the vine.

Festive Wine is one of about half a dozen small companies deserving applause for persevering in the face increasing government hostility towards an industry that contributes significantly to our economy.

Operating a small, third-floor retail outlet in All Season's Place, Festive Wine is taking steps to expand their visibility. Last week, they showcased half a dozen of their all-Australia list at a Plaza Athenee tasting billed "Six Shiraz, One Grape".

It was obvious from the packed mezzanine venue at Reflexion's that they chose the right wines.

Whether called syrah al a Rhone of France or shiraz, as Australia has chosen to distinguish its particular style, it is genetically the same grape. The Aussies borrowed the name from the vine's apparent origin in Shiraz, Persia, now Iran.

Characterised by its inky, ruby colour, intense blackberry and briary flavour, shiraz is the king of Australian reds. No small factor in its popularity is its ability to produce acceptable wine from a wide range of soil and climatic conditions, Thailand providing a good example.

Prices for wines at the tasting were between Bt460 and Bt2,600. Four of the six shiraz poured were from Evans & Tate, a Margaret River-based wine company with properties in several major growing regions.

At the bargain level was '04 Jackaroo with generally overripe fruit flavours but balanced enough for everyday use. The '05 Charlie's Origins from West Australia showed balance, lighter body but enough of a backbone for a barbecue dinner.

Top from Evans & Tate was their eponymous Margaret River '02 shiraz showing rich plum flavours, modest tannins and solid finish distinguishing it enough to pick up several recent competition awards.

Best value at about Bt1,000 was Elderton Tantalus '04 blend of shiraz, cabernet and malbec. This Barossa Valley wine exhibited the fruit-forward style and vanillin background that has made Aussie shiraz popular among younger wine aficionados.

The best wine was unquestionably Pirramimma Stock's Hill '04 shiraz from McLaren Vale with its carefully balanced fruit, background peppery spice and lively finish. At Bt1,500 it's a wine to save and savour.

Stopping at Festive Wine's shop in All Season's place will give you additional options including more Elderton varietals, Turkey Flat from Barossa Valley, Majella Coonawarra cabernet and several other boutique award winners.

Managing partner June Laokawong, a former product manager for Nestle's Thailand, was enthusiastic about the tasting. "When I see so many people enjoying the wines my partner Shaun Iles and I have selected I know all of our efforts will be successful."

All the best, June!

Contact Festive Wine at (02) 251 1592.