I was a big fan of the Vasse Felix Classic Dry Red range of wines for a long time, the older vintages back in 2001 were Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon blends. They also had a Cabernet Merlot that was a step up in price and quality, but somehow I preferred the Classic Dry Red more as a quaffer. It was not a fine wine by any means, it was never meant to be and was great value for money. 

Vasse Felix now markets their substantial wines under four collections of Icon, Premier, Filius and Classic. Vasse Felix produces some pretty amazing drops from their Tom Cullity and Heytesbury ranges, they are pretty expensive though. At $20 per bottle, this is a decent drop of Margaret River winemaking, this had been matured for 9 months in French and American oak cask.

The 2001 was rated at 88/100 and had 14% alcohol, was dark red in colour and blackcurrant palette with a slight violet aftertaste. I found the tannins in the Classic Dry Red to be a little tannic in the aftertaste, it did not have big legs and was not a cellaring option, this was a drink now wine that was purchased on the way to a barbecue or dinner with friends.