2004 Marquis Philips

2004 Marquis Philips Shiraz
2004 Marquis Philips Cabernet Sauvignon
2004 Marquis Philips Sarahs' Blend (CSM)
2004 Marquis Philips S2 (Cabernet Sauvignon)
2004 Marquis Philips S9 (Shiraz)
No Intergrity produced, all the fruits blended in S9.

This partnership between Dan Philips and winemakers Sarah and Sparky Marquis (who will no longer be making these wines starting with the 2005 vintage) has been a blockbuster success in the American market. And why not? They are delicious efforts possessing varietal character in addition to being loaded with fruit. In short, they are hedonistic, fun wines to drink ... just what wines should be. And, when you consider their prices, they represent exceptional values. The 2002s were knock-outs, the 2003s, while good, were less successful, and the 2004s hit the bull’s eye once again.

(Normally the wines only available in US. It is a joint Venture between Philips and Marquis. The hostile separation of the Marquis' and Dan Philips lead to a blow out to distributors so that the wines could be had (while they were available) for about half to 60% the normal pricing--great bargains if you like the style. The Marquis' latest venture, Mollydooker, is now available in the 2005 wines. Their high end wines are coming out somewhat later)

2004 Marquis Philips Cabernet Sauvignon RP90
The classic 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon offers tell-tale aromas and flavors of black currants, high class cigar smoke, and herbs. Medium to full-bodied with dense, layered fruit flavors, an attractive suppleness, and an easy-going style with admirable depth, it should drink well for 2-3 years.



2004 Marquis Philips Shiraz RP90
The 2004 Shiraz reveals blackberry, tar, pepper, and toasty oak characteristics in its spicy, rich, deep, voluptuous personality. It will drink well for 1-3 years.


2004 Marquis Philips Sarah's Blend RP91
The dense ruby/purple-hued 2004 Sarah’s Blend is composed of 62% Shiraz and the rest equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It offers abundant black cherry and cassis fruit in its smoky, earthy bouquet along with hints of licorice, dried herbs, and chocolate. Full-bodied, opulent, fruity, and long with surprising complexity as well as depth, it should be drunk over the next 3-4 years.

2004 Marquis Philips Cabernet Sauvignon S2 RP90

The more expensive offerings include the 2004 S2 Cabernet Sauvignon. The first bottle tasted was closed, but a second bottle was more open and interesting. There is more to it than the less expensive cuvees, but also more tannin and wood, which can make for a less charming and less open-knit wine. It appears everything will come together with another 6-12 months of bottle age, but at present, this is a solidly made, outstanding example of Cabernet Sauvignon in need of bottle age. It should last for 7-8 years.

2004 Marquis Philips Shiraz 9 RP92

No Shiraz Integrity was made in 2004, so the superb 2004 Shiraz 9 includes the wine that would have been earmarked for that flamboyant cuvee. The rich, full-bodied, opulent Shiraz 9 boasts abundant amounts of concentrated blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with smoke, camphor, and tar notes. It is a powerful Shiraz (16% alcohol), so those looking for restraint and delicate European-styled reds should steer clear of this monster. It should drink well for at least a decade.

More information on Mollydooker (from WS)

Mollydooker Shiraz McLaren Vale Carnival of Love 2005 94 points $60 2,430 cases imported Red
From the winemaking team of Sparky and Sarah Marquis, this one just brims with personality. It plays its toasty, roasted wheat berry and dusky spice flavors against a vital core of dark, juicy blackberry, plum and cherry fruit. The finish just doesn’t quit, the tannins wrapping it all firmly but gently. Serious Shiraz, in Technicolor and Panavision. Best from 2008 through 2016. From Australia. --H.S.

(From RP)
Mollydooker Carnival Of Love 99$60.00Early Maturity2005
Mollydooker Enchanted Path96$60.00Early Maturity2005
Mollydooker The Boxer (Shiraz)95$20.00Early Maturity2005
Mollydooker Two Left Feet (Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot)94$20.00Mature2006
Mollydooker The Violinist (Verdelho)92$15.00Mature2005
Mollydooker The Maitre d' (Cabernet)92$20.00Early Maturity