The 1998 Shiraz has a dark ruby appearance with a deep purple edge. The aroma is vibrant and lively with an excellent varietal definition of warm spices, brambles and dark plums. The palate is dominated by well defined, ripe fruit, a soft, generous mid-palate and a long, rich finish. This is supported by fine-grained tannins and a delicious underlay of toasty American oak. The wine drinks well now and will reward 6 to 8 years of further bottle maturation.