Aged in 80% French oak and 20% American (of which 60% is new), this barrel sample (to be bottled in November) was immensely impressive. There will be 400 cases of this dense inky/purple-colored Shiraz. It offers a gorgeous nose of licorice, melted road tar, blackberry liqueur, and sweet black currants. There is dazzling palate persistence, tremendous texture, and full body, but the wine is neither heavy nor out of balance. The finish lasts for 45+ seconds. With thrilling density and richness yet good equilibrium, it will drink well for 10-15 years.

"Asphalt/melted road tar characteristics interwoven with blackberries, smoke, roasted herbs, and meat emerge from the dense purple-hued 2005 Shiraz. Aged 20 months in 80% French oak and 20% American, this is a seriously endowed, full-bodied, backward yet accessible offering to consume over the next 10-12 years."

Community Tasting Notes (average 90.7 pts. and median of 92 pts. in 3 notes)