The color is very dark blood red, almost black with just a little hint of purple. There is an immense variety of aromas greeting you when you first sniff this wine. Black cherries, blueberries and plums. There is an overriding sensation of earthy, mushroom like characters and more lifted aromas with licorice bark, coffee and vanilla. There are some hints of other spices as well with some nutmeg, cloves and fennel. All of this and more follows on the palate. As well as the flavors that are describ...

Rating: 95(+?) - As reviewed by Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar on Jul-00 Bright dark ruby. Very fresh but brooding aromas of crystallized black raspberry, violet, dark chocolate, mocha and game. Rather closed and unforthcoming on the palate, but the wine's great depth of flavor and precision are already apparent. A step up from the last two wines in sheer intensity. Finishes with great sweetness of fruit, superb grip, and noble tannins that coat the teeth. This wi...

Rating: 95/100 - As reviewed in Wine Advocate # 127 on Feb-00

Rating: 93/100 - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 06/30/00

Rating: 98/100 - As reviewed by The Wine Advocate

Rating: 98/100 - As reviewed by Wine Enthusiast

Rating for Australia-South Australia-Adelaide-Fleurieu-McLaren Vale: 95 (good year)<br/><br/>Drinkability: young, aging quickly, could be good now<br/>

has developed very nicely since last drunk 10 yes ago. bitter choc undertones with again the trademark bouquet. opened 2 hours before drinking