Ah, varietal synonyms! Don't you just love the little devils? Unpacking the December 1870s Club pack from Baileys I was mildly bemused (not an uncommon occurrence in these parts) by the presence of both a Durif and a Petit Sirah, varieties that are, as far as I can make out, synonymous.
The notes accompanying the pack suggested the name differentiation stemmed from different handling of two parcels of fruit, and (total surmise here) the parcel that went through French oak treatment acquired the French varietal moniker, while American oak treatment suggested use of the American synonym.
Baileys of Glenrowan 2009 Rutherglen Petit Sirah (4.5* $25) While its cousin/brother was remarkably understated for a Durif, this one takes things a step further with softer, rounder and more velveteen tannins across the palate. Richly aromatic on the nose, it scored a big seal of approval from Madam, to the point where I'm looking seriously at a reorder. Available in half-dozen lots (15% discount and freight free for 1870s Club members) a six-pack should do us for the duration of a regular Bowen chilly winter (i.e. the week when the overnight minimum drops below 10).
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