2003 Shirvington Shiraz

This is an inky, teeth-staining black purple. The richness is evident from the first pour. Powerful, heady aromas of graphite, stewed dark fruits, coffee grounds, crushed pepper fill the room. Thick and hearty palate attack. Lots of oak to go with the super ripe fruit. Even though it has the requisite fireworks, there is a sense of harmony and balance that often is missing from similar large scaled Aussie shiraz. The finish goes on and on. This is a beauty, but not for those that like delicate wines. Retail $80, grade: A.