Luna di Luna Shiraz Merlot 2006

Jammy and smoky. At first the jelly, and then the smoke to provide bitterness and even out the flavor. It manages to provide that initial sweet without being overpowering or cloying. Has great palate cleansing dryness to match that bold body. It's actually pretty good with dishes using peanut or peanut butter. I like a lot of character in my reds and this wine delivered. I can see how it would turn a lot of people off, but I thought it had a unique, playful, delightful character.

Im fairly new to wine. So i think my palette for a wine that is four years old and not very developed of flavor i can give a fair judgment. the wine was one sale for 12.00 for 3 bottles along with Luna Di Luna Rosé Pink Merlot. So i bought 2 bottles of the orange bottle (the red wine) and 2 bottles of the pink pepto bismol looking bottle (the pink wine). The Orange bottle is 50 % shiraz and 50% merlot. the wine has a somewhat unsettling smell. unlike most wines i am use to. the taste of the wine does not have a medium finish like the review explains above...in fact it has a rather short finish with a bitter earthy taste. smoky, citrus, but not sweet. not tangy, but dry with a little sting. im sure you will agree.. a good wine to get if you plan on gettin drunk when there is a deal like 3 for 12:00 going on but not much else. not a complimenting drink. Its not good for gamy food as explained aboive..in fact.. if you spend your time hunting dear you will be disappointed by the wine. However!. the pink merlot/Rosé is pretty nice. IT has a medium smooth finish with a blush fruity taste. not hard to swallow, not smoky, and although it sems very feminine in looks as if you might be scared of growing breats after one sip it is quite nice. the color of the bottle is actually inspired from the wine company donating money to breast cancer charities wit every bottle sold, and so , if you are looking at luna di luna, like with women, go for the pink!!!