Aubergine, The Lost Observatory Carignan Syrah 2003, Swartland, South Africa

Tasting Note: Try this carignan-syrah blend and thank me later.

Deep-intensity ruby in color, this wine has a nose of black plum, blossom, red cherry and violet parsed with white blossom and some pencil shavings and hints of baking spice.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus-bodied, red blend has balance, especially between its red-and-black fruit character that is ripe yet restrained.

The wine is smooth and silky in texture with medium tannin.

Bottle Note: Made at Boschgaasfontein Farm, Paardeberg. Harald Bresselschmidt, Cuisinier.