Of the three Rusty Mutt Vermilion Bird Shiraz wines I looked at in a mini vertical, this 2016 stood well above the 2015 and 2018 with the fruit and oak being more in sync.
Dense plums and dark berries are teeth staining and demonstrate some brutish strength, but over a few days of tasting, the shape and structure build some impressive momentum. Drying and sapping, big, juicy tannins draw all moisture from the mouth. Cedar and sandalwood aren't far from the action leaving what seems an everlasting length with plenty of tannin chew and a sheet of fine spices.
Drink to ten years+
94/100
Region: McLaren Vale