Baileys of Glenrowan Tasting Notes

These notes, which also appear in the Tastings section of the site, are grouped together here for easy reference.

Baileys 2009 Cabernet
Baileys of Glenrowan 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (4.5* $25) Surprisingly soft (I was expecting something substantially bigger) fruit-driven style with smoothly rounded tannins and a very moreish mouth-feel. May not be one for the long haul, but could well be part of a reorder after I've tried the other three reds in the pack.

Baileys of Glenrowan Founder Liqueur Muscat NV (4.5* $25/ $21.25 1870s Club) The intensity through the nose and across the palate takes me back to the old HJT Liqueur Muscat, my long term benchmark for the style. Full-flavoured with a lusciousness across the palate that will keep the I'm getting a bit of crowd busy, Obtaining a regular supply was the reason for joining the 1870s Club, and I want a bottle as a permanent fixture on top of the wine rack until I can afford the Winemakers Selection Rare Old Muscat ($75/ $53.75 1870s Club for 375ml on a regular basis.

Baileys of Glenrowan 2009 Rutherglen Durif (4.5* $25/ $21.25 1870s Club) The conventional wisdom suggests those who prefer subtle, understated reds should be giving Durif, with high alcohol levels and big flavours to match, the big flick pass, I found this remarkably smooth and understated. There's still plenty of rich full-bodied fruit flavour but it's nicely balanced and went down a treat. Better cellaring conditions and a genuine winter could prompt a reorder, though it works very well as a short term drinking style.

Baileys of Glenrowan 2009 Rutherglen Petit Sirah (4.5* $25) While its cousin/brother was remarkably understated for a Durif, this one takes things a step further with softer, rounder and more velveteen tannins across the palate. Richly aromatic on the nose, it scored a big seal of approval from Madam, to the point where I'm looking seriously at a reorder. Available in half-dozen lots (15% discount and freight free for 1870s Club members) a six-pack should do us for the duration of a regular Bowen chilly winter (i.e. the week when the overnight minimum drops below 10).