In Lieu Of Champagne.

Elderton Command Shiraz 2004

Whether you voted for him or not, today we have a new President and that is an event that we have only celebrated 44 times.  Such occasions call for a lightness of heart and a reconnection with what it means to live here in a country where so much is possible.

As I think about what I might want to drink as I celebrate this remarkable day, my thoughts instantly run toward what turned out to be my favorite wine of 2008 – the Elderton Command Shiraz 2004.  While it’s not an American wine, it is a bottle that more than lives up to the occasion and will certainly put all of us who drink it into a mood of celebration and hope for the next four years.  

The 2004 Command is a remarkably elegant expression of Barossa Valley Shiraz from Australia.  Few wines achieve success across the entire experience:  aromatics; weight on the tongue; texture; depth of flavor; and a long, rich finish that compels you to take the next sip.  Parker gave it 98 points and I agree with him.  I have had few better wines from Australia or anywhere.

BUY: Elderton Command Shiraz 2004