I see too little shiraz from the Hunter Valley in these parts.  This wine from Bilgavia Estate immediately has that tang of earth, plum, leather and soft spice that transports you to this hot and steamy wine region north of Sydney.   The palate has some cedary and toasty characters but these barrel characters do not overwhelm.  The balance is tipped a little to the side by some charging acidity, but its general drinkability rights the ship.  A Hunter Valley shiraz of some regional typicity.

Rating: Acceptable to Good, Abv: 12.5%, Price: $26, Source: sample, Vendors: http://www.wine-searcher.com/, Website: http://wine.bilgaviaestate.com.au, Tasted: 2014