Rich and dense, this is a sledgehammer. Loaded with oak, tuck it away for a while and watch it emerge. Its boisterous persona is fit for sipping during a chilly night as the rain taps on the roof.
From vines planted in 1898, gee, the American oak is BIG. My immediate question is why throw so much American oak at wonderful old vine fruit. Picked ripe, it is stated to be 14.5% but I reckon the full 1.5% allowance is coming into play. Cedar, sandalwood, chocolate and Caramello Koala and a curious strawberry daiquiri aroma launch from the glass. It was still holding its ground on day four of tasting such is its heft and muscular presence. Stewed plums, blackberries, drunken blackcurrants, star anise, baking spices - it's not light on interest. There is a rum and raisin seam stitched through the core. Despite already having five years of bottle age, leave it a while yet.
Put it away and check it out 2028+
88/100
Region: Barossa
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