October 26, 2005

If you haven't noticed Yellow Tail wines, you haven't been paying attention. In 2001 this little-known Australian brand exploded onto the U.S. market, growing from a few hundred thousand cases imported to almost 7 million in 2004. Today, it's the nation's No. 1 brand in dollar volume. Now come Yellow Tail Reserve wines ($11).

Yellow Tail Reserve Pinot Grigio 2004 has crisp aromas of cut pears, apples and grapefruit with clean, lively citrus flavors and a touch of peach on the end; it's a great party wine.

Yellow Tail Reserve Chardonnay 2004 has a nose full of green apples and peaches, with a hint of vanilla and minerals followed by great creamy texture and zippy acidity in the mouth. Lots of bang for the buck.

Yellow Tail Reserve Merlot 2003 has lots of spiced apple, black cherry and pepper on the nose with ripe berry and tart cherry flavors that finish off a dash of black pepper and vanilla.

Yellow Tail Reserve Shiraz 2003 has tons of super-ripe blackberry, cherry and plum aromas followed by a big mouthful of spicy ripe fruit with a touch of sweet vanilla and black pepper on the end.

Yellow Tail Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 is a real winner, with an intense nose of black plums, new leather and fresh-cut tobacco followed by a lush, ripe fruity front with a zap of tart cherry on the middle and a warm, smoky, vanilla-tinged ending.

Louise Owens