Critters on wine labels is often something that will steer me in another direction because it is often indicative of not-so-good wine. I’m not the first person to bring this up, others wine aficionados also avoid the critter.  But many shoppers are attracted to wine with cute little animals on the label and some winemakers know that critters sell wine.  And I would guess that no wine-producing region puts more animals on labels than Australia.

However, the “avoid wine with critters” rule does not apply when that critter is a Roogle.  What is a Roogle, you ask?  It’s half kangaroo and half bald eagle, and it’s found on labels of wine from Marquis Philips.  This unique icon, which kind of looks like a mythical creature, represents the collaboration between Australian and American winemakers which results in Marquis Philips wine.

Marquis Philips started as a joint venture between American Dan Philips and Australian winemakers Sarah and Sparky Marquis, however Sarah and Sparky Marquis have since moved on to produce Mollydooker Wines.  Dan Philips is still involved with Marquis Philips and is currently partnering with other Australian winemakers to create this wine.

And why is it that the Roogle gets an exception as an acceptable critter on a wine label?  Because this wine is good!

In a way, this Shiraz reminded me of a Zinfandel with a little less spice.  The nose is full and rich with blackberry jam, leather, dark chocolate and oak. The palate has very jammy blackberry with loads of dark chocolate.  There’s also a bit of cherry on the palate and a hint of spice.  And at 15.5% alcohol it is a big wine.  The finish is long lasting and is like creamy dark chocolate melting on your tongue.

Wine: Marquis Philips
Variety: Shiraz
Vintage: 2006
Alcohol: 15.5%
Rating: 88
Price: $12.98

Find Marquis Philips Shiraz with Snooth