Stump Jump Shiraz and the Eagles

It’s impossible to detail the history of the Eagles in a short paragraph or two. Suffice to say they are one of the most successful American rock bands in history made up of some incredible guitarists that include(d) Bernie Leadon, Glen Frey, Joe Walsh, and Don Felder. They’ve had five number one singles, six Grammies, five American Music Awards, and six number one albums. Hotel California ranked among the 20 best selling albums of all times. I’ve included my own favorites from the group as well as several songs by the individuals. Glen Frey’s Smuggler’s blues, Hotel California (acoustic version), and Don Henley’s End of the Innocence are rock classics. Their music is a great way to kick of the weekend. Enjoy!


Hotel California: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zhpwls37Z4s

Take it easy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFqlvKtP_Jg&feature=related

The one you love: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQ_8CrBMcuc 

The heat is on: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-mU-YSk32I

You belong to the city: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4ueaD22hg8&feature=related

Smuggler’s blues: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkG-ZPn9-c8&feature=related

All she wants to do is dance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHjRE-O4JhE&feature=related

Funk 49: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LC30m09R6G8&feature=related

You belong to the city: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ns0JhbZ5ldU&feature=related

Boys of summer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iz7MmJ00P98&feature=related

End of the Innocence: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLONgF8a_Ig&playnext=1&list=PLA305FA6E5D88D843

I’m pairing the Eagles with a $10.00 wine rated a 90 and the # 63 wine in Wine Spectator’s top 100, namely, the d’Arenberg’s Stump Jump Shiraz. Its name relates to a significant South Australian invention – the Stump Jump plough. This plough became a popular piece of machinery for ploughing fields because of its ability to ride over stumps and gnarled "mallee" Eucalyptus roots and snags, saving valuable time and resources by not stopping the draught horse.

Unscrewing the cap unveils brilliant aromas of plum, raspberry, and flowers. I recommend you let it breathe for at least a half hour, after which it’ll really open up revealing juicy red fruits on the palate complimented by black raspberry and ripe cherry. It has considerable complexity, balanced tannins, and a nice mineral finish. And for $10.00 and a load of music by the Eagles, you can’t go wrong. Have a great weekend.

Cheers!