inky black burgundy red, little clarity, dusty ruby hue Nose: roasted plum, black cherry, cigar, tobacco, black pepper, clove, dust, cola, oak Pal: roasted plum, black cherry, cigar, tobacco, dark chocolate, black pepper, clove, dust, caramel, cola, oak Feel: medium, touch cloying Finish: medium T8
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A fun shiraz as always, just more mellowed out. This has retained some of plum jam and umeboshi notes from back in 2011 and still has a lot of life ahead of it. A very solid wine for the price.
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- Garnet color with medium forming legs. It's balanced and has flavours of blackberry, raspberry and strawberry with a medium body. Juicy texture with a medium finish - Excellent wine.
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Famed 2004 vintage, I decanted for about 3 hours prior to a virtual drink up. It had some sediment so there was some prep work. In the glass its dark ruby and garnet, no browning or orange that I could see, just some slight thinning. Otherwise its pretty opaque and dense, good legs. The nose is dark fruit, leaning black, licorice, and mint/menthol, some smoke. It opened up even more over the next 3 hours and it got more complex; smoke turn spice notes (baking spice?). The front was blackberry as the front-runner, eucalyptus, a touch mint, white pepper, it gets more forward as time passes/ opens up further. Not out of whack, just more pure. the middle hold medium+ acid with the fruit mellowing and tannins kicking in with some grip. The back holds that bite with the fruit as the anchor and rides out nicely, well integrated and balanced however maybe a bit shorter than preferred. No burn. Its a good bottle holding some age and giving. Its drinking well now and doesn't have any more runway to improve. My other will go in the near future.
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Last of our half case. Still in prime window - just not as fruity as it once was...more smokey and oaky now with eucalyptus and licorice. Still complex and interesting. Great with BBQ.
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- Garnet color. It's balanced and has flavours of blackberry and black currant with a medium/full body. Juicy texture with a medium finish - Shared with study group. Very good bottle of wine that is at its prime.
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Still nice, but nearing the end of it's prime drinking window. Interesting nose and palate: lots of eucalyptus and licorice and some oak, fruit is fading, but it is still present - still a very nice drink. Smooth, lots of glycerin, fairly big wine. Drink now-2018 for current level of yumminess.
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Last bottle of a great QPR case (purchased before the deceptive later release of lower quality wine under exact same label and vintage). Nearing end of peak as the sweet oak and fruit are still there but without the fruit's prior punch. Drink this year or next to get the most of this. -2018
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Big. Developed some complexity by night 2. Good wine, never going to be great in my books. Drink up, or wait another 5-10 years, I'm not sure it matters!
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I don't think this was one of "re-release" bottles made up of "fake" Schild estate syrah, but the wine is clearly on its downside as it lacked the consistent density and seamless layering of black and blue fruits that it had 4 or 5 years ago.
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Inky black, with deep licorice and plum notes, that are framed by the mid length tannins on the finish. Not particularly my style, however, I can't deny the overall quality of this wine for what it is.
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Dark fruits and a licorice with a little wildness to the finish. No hard edges. This is the best wine from this producer. Due to the success of a highly rated wine in 2004, they falsified the contents of their product in a subsequent vintage to address the demand. Consequently, the wine has never matched the quality of the 2004 vintage.
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Know this is from the famous vintage where Wine Spectator de-listed them from the top 10, but I must have gotten one of the good bottles, because this was really nice. Compares favorably to my favorite zins (Turley, Carlisle, etc.) due to drinkability and lack of tannin. Good, deep fruit flavors and easy drinking.
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- Garnet color with medium forming legs. It's in total harmony and has flavours of blackberry and black currant with a medium body. Juicy texture with a medium finish - This wine has reached its peak. The nose is fantastic. Loaded with fruit. Chocolate permeates the wine with hints of blackberry, strawberry. This wine in berry good.
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2004s around the world: Delicious but I don’t see it improving with more age. Enough oomph to probably last 5+ years but why not enjoy this at peak while its exciting blackberry and coffee chords remain so beautifully bold.
At its best -2018 but drinkable longer.
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Best showing for this wine to date. Lovely nose. Medium-full bodied, nice structure. Mix of dark fruits, chocolate and mineral. Very, very nice! Tempted to drink the rest of my stash, but will check back in a year or so.
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This is absolutely in its "sweet spot." A gorgeous wine, especially for the price. My patience has paid dividends. Actually one of the most enjoyable wines I've had in awhile. Well balanced throughout with a wonderful nose and long, savory, spicy finish. Chocolate covered blackberries! The tannins are well resolved leaving the wine velvety delicious! Find it if you can!
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Purple color with a bouquet and flavor of plums and cherries, followed by a bit of pepper in the finish. Nice balance with good body and nuance, and a rather long ending. A Second bottle tasted six months later showed some decline. Drink up any that you still have.
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This wine opened musty and tight, taking a good hour in the decanter to begin showing much fruit. Initially it reminded me of moderate-age brunello - low fruit, leather, tar, slightly high acid, granular tannins. Over time this unwound, showing a meaty profile as well as black cherry, smoked meat, and spice; with smooth and soft tannins. This paired well with burgers, especially the ones topped with sauteed onions and spicy mustard. Me - 90, Wife - 92. Even now, I recommend decanting a minimum of 1 hr prior to drinking, 2-3 if you can. Based on this experience, I wouldn't hold these for too much longer.
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- Brick color with medium forming legs. It's balanced and has flavours of blackberry, black currant and licorice anise with a medium body. Juicy texture with a medium finish - Dark fruit and lots of licorice. Great tasting wine.
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18th Annual Lyon 10 Year Retrospective (Lyon Down Inn): Another ripe wine in this tasting, it has pronounced black licorice overtone with deep black fruit, espresso, tar, and oak. Long finish stood out, and its great QPR given its original price. 91 on day 2.
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Still drinking nicely with ripe black plum, dark chocolate, vanilla, dark roast coffee, some sweet spice. Everything still fresh enough that this retains good balance.
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Tight out of the fridge, opened spectacularly after an hour in the decanter. Super fruity at first, then the pepper and dark berries came into play. Black fruit, white pepper and tobacco on the nose. Silky tannins with a medium finish. RTD now, next tasting with Grinner in November!
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Quite delicious and drinking very well right now. Fruity, but not jammy. Lovely nose. Full bodied. Not overly oaky or sweet. Complex flavors, long finish, nice mouth feel. Should hold up for another 3-4 years, but try to drink before the end 2016.
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Balanced tent poles of sweet, fresh-squeezed liquor and bitter coffee notes. Juicy, interesting, and appealing, with typicity. Trying not to factor the hype and controversy around the producer and how out-of fashion the varietal and region have become.
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I rated this an 88/100 on a value basis... straight 90/100 otherwise
There are SO MANY better Shiraz from my home area than this overhyped label..
Anyway, the 2004 was rated 96/100 by WS and 94/100 by Halliday..
I decanted this after letting the bottle sit upright for a few hours to let the sediment settle... actually not much settlement... I tasted and smelled after 1 hour... very closed... started drinking after 3 hours.. still very closed... better at hours 6 onwards but meh.... so disappointed
I wanted to add that this was quite disappointing... luckily I got the wine very cheap at about $44 but on some websites it is $89.
A medium bodied mix of blackberry, mocha, dark chocolate and licorice; weaker tannins; sweetness without dead fruit.... still an overtone of alcohol which my wife hated... great dark purple colour, weird bouquet after decanting until the air opened it up.... the finish was more raspberry than dark berry... my feelings may have been clouded my my missus' real dislike for this Shiraz
No formal notes. Very sweet with candied dark fruit. I thought previous bottles were quite decent a year ago but these two bottles were much sweeter and confected. Average.
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Over ripe fruit and artificial acidity cover what decent flavors are hidden. Blackberry jam belongs on toast, not at dinner. Second day, same as the first. The rest will have to go down the drain. My (over)rating is based solely on the confidence that some people like syrup with alcohol substituted for the sugar.
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Getting down to the final bottles. Continues to impress, and still has structure to hang in there for several more years. Did not expect this to perform so well when I bought it years ago. None of it's other vintages that I've tried have come close to this. Great wine.
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Seems to be about done evolving. Still good fruit, but lacking a more refined finish indicative of the original high WS score. But, as with our own lives, maturation can blunt or slow further refinement.
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Gave it a couple hour decant. Still going strong but not jammy like it once was. More "subtle" (if that is appropriate) overripe blueberry pie with more of pie nuances coming out. Hints of vanilla and Oak. 20+ second finish.
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Popped, decanted and poured after 15 minutes. Let's do this backwards. The finish is remarkably long. I can still taste it minutes after swallowing. Raspberry red fruit from start to finish. The nose is strong raspberry from the minute I started to decant. There was a bit of funky smell when the decant was over, but it blew off right away. It seems to be a composite cork, but a good seal and no evidence of problems. The mouth feel was a bit rough at first, especially at the back of the palate, but after 30-45 minutes, that smoothed out. The longer it sat in the glass, the stronger the fruit. Still has time to go. Not falling apart like everyone predicted for wines like this. Very enjoyable.
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Opaque dark purple color, pronounced nose of American oak, ripe berry fruit, garden herbs and more fruit. This is fruit bomb in the true sense. This wine refuses to be ignored. Medium acid, nice balance, full bodied, and finishes well. Definitely a Parker wine. This wine is ready to drink but could age. . Outstanding... Great value
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Decanted on night 1. Menthol and big fruit but initially over done. Paired pretty well with tri tip steaks but became too much after dinner. Night 2 it had mellowed and lost the menthol but was still a bit too much. This needs another 5 years for my palate.
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Surprisingly elegant - the previous bottle which we drank 6 months prior was a bit flat. Not this one. Deep purple in color, solid fruit with pear and berry notes. Mild finish - not as big as when it was younger. Drink soon.
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Heavy and jammy, as opposed to fine and elegant. Very flavorful and good, but not quite worth the WS96 rating. Probably best to drink sooner than later.
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has been a long time since I had an Australian Syrah... this was a welcome surprise. Dark fruit, a bit ripe but not at all over the top, peppery and savory, pretty well balanced.
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Deep Purple color in the glass. Very enjoyable first glass, with a little heat but lots of fruit showing through. Second glass took on a mineral component and not as pleasant. Second night glasses returned to original flavors, still showing reasonably well.
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No formal notes. This type of wine isn't usually in my wheelhouse, but I was quite impressed with this for what it is. Darker fruits, chocolate, hints of oak. Smooth and rich on the palate with solid acidity. Didn't find it over the top or unbalanced. A great crowd pleaser. Drink or hold. Very good.
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Sampled 10/24/12. This overripe/candied blueberry monster still just pleases to no end. Smooth as silk but lots of subtle flavors behind all the massively dense fruit as well. Oak, vanilla, black cherry.
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Beautiful deep purple color. Oak and blueberry on the nose. A bit hot right off the bat, though that burnt off after a few minutes. The finish is pretty short, though still has some decent fruit throughout. Still a very nice wine, but definitely not improving at this point. Drink what you have sooner than later.
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Last of the case. Definitely lost some of the complexity from the initial few bottles, but still very good. Mostly oak, very sweet blueberry notes, and almost a hint of grape Kool-Aid. Still enjoyable, though... and the tannins have mellowed nicely. Again, this was a great deal... I remember trying to chase this one down when it first came out. A lot of nice memories with this wine. Sad to see this one go. Very Good
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Great wine. Aging well and still has time to go. A well balanced Aussie Shiraz, not an in your face fruit and alcohol bomb. K and I did wake up with headaches the next day.
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This wine was way better on release, glad it was my last bottle. Nose of Carmel, chocolate, coffee. Dark fruit up front but almost appeared over the hill on the back end. Improved back end on day two but still remember this being a lot better several years ago.
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Aromas of dark plum, chocolate and dark roasted coffee. Similarly ripe, sweet black fruit on the palate. Still very fresh and vibrant, no fear of falling apart in the next few years. Worked well with spicy ribs tonight.
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It was pretty good out of the gate. Fruity, rich, balanced. But it got better with a couple hours of air. Still has life left but if i had any left I would drink them.
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The first of six held since release in our passive cellar. Decanted for 30 minutes leaving a moderate amount of sludgy sediment. On first pour, fairly deep ruby color with just a faint hint of browning at the edge. Very nice nuanced mature aromatics with subtle undertones of dark fruits. I had braced myself for yet another clumsy Shiraz from down under; boy was in for a surprise. This wine was gorgeous. Medium full round feel in the mouth yet light on its feet. Very good balance, with mature layered flavors that were in total harmony. Long clean smooth finish without a trace of heat from the 14.5% ABV. I'm not sure this will improve very much but it should provide a great deal of pleasurable drinking for the next 3-5 years. Irrespective of their recent bad PR, Schild got it right with this one. 92+
UPDATE: 12/31/2013 Decanted for 30 minutes and served with a hearty beef stew, this is still holding very well with no signs of decline.
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Dark raspberry, blueberry and licorice nose. This opened right up with very little coaxing. Full bodied and plush but with enough acid and a hint of alcohol giving it spice and lift. Don't know where this will go from here but it was gorgeous two and a half years ago and still is now, even though it has definitely changed with time.
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Much milder than when tasted previously. I'd say it's peaked. Lots of different notes including pencil and tobacco. Stood up to ribs, but probably wouldn't in another year.
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Delicious full on Shiraz. Big blueberry nose and velvety on the palette. Balanced and just drinking wonderful right now. I assume the next year will be even better.
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Shame on Schild for their recent shenanigans with current vintages of this wine. I wonder if they were bottling bulk wine back in '04 to capitalize on Harvey's 96 because this never came lose to 96 in my book. This bottle was not a good one, sour with Syrah skunk. Some violet fruit and a hint of RS. Good riddance Schild.
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Probably the best I have had, grapey, blueberry nose with oak hints. Well integrated acid and enough tannins to make it interesting. Blueberry, oak, vanilla and chocolate flavors frame the acidity. One bottle less, I hope that Schild was not cheating this vintage. It falls apart after a couple of hours, so I would drink soon after opening and warming from cellar temps.
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In a really good place right now. Starting to develop a bit of secondary character. Smooth on the palate. Full without being overpowering. A nice bit of background acidity keeps this balanced. My only regret is that I've raced through 11 of 12 bottles, with only one remaining. I think this still has a lot more to show.
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Actually working pretty well right now. Chocolate, berry nose. Chocolate, raspberry, prune flavors frame a decent acidity but nearly non-existent tannins. A decent bottle.
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paque dark purple color, pronounced nose of American oak, ripe berry fruit, garden herbs and more fruit. This is fruit bomb in the true sense. This wine refuses to be ignored. Medium acid, nice balance, full bodied, and finishes well. Great value
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Exotic notes of plum jam, umeboshi, hoisin sauce, Chinese red bean paste, and toffee nut. Progressing nicely in its evolution, mellow and supple on the palate, with a plum-laced acidity. The alcohol does peak out a bit though, but overall a really enjoyable wine.
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Plum on the nose, but not in a funky or disjointed way. Very dark, smooth and enjoyable. Subtle sweetness that doesn't disappoint. Expected the plumminess to detract from the experience but it was quite good.
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I had this wine 6 months ago and it was wonderful then. It is absolutely gorgeous now. Dark color, beautiful nose of berries and a just a touch of spice. What's left of tannins are soft. The improvement of this wine over time is a great testament to the hidden potential some wines possess. Might be the best $20 bottle I've ever bought. Recently bought the highly rated 2008 and just have to hope it's even close to as good as this.
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A rich dandilion fat nuanced deep herbal vanilla blueberry earth-dusted elixer. A big ripe back-of-your-mouth sweetness combined with an almost balancing mesquite.
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This is the fifth bottle of this wine that I have consumed over the last three or four years. It continues to fail to impress me. It is heavy on the fruit, but has little or no complexity to go along with the fruit. After becoming a member of Cellartracker last year, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the community average for this wine is close to 92, so I decided to try another bottle last week. I just don't see it. The wine has not evolved meaningfully since my first bottle and remains fairly pedestrian. I'll have to bring down the average a little.
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This has improved moderately since its youth. Still heavy in dark fruit and oak flavors, but settling down enough to have some decent balance and to be enjoyable in its style. Not a long ager, but I think it may still improve in the next couple of years.
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drank next to 04 Kilikanoon Covenant on its second day. much stronger oak influence on the Schild, both on the nose and the palate. need to wait a day on the Schild to see if oak blows off...
second day and this has come more into balance, oak has calmed down some... but still nothing to get excited about. previous bottles showed much better.
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I had a bottle of this in 2008 and it was still too big to consume unless hours of decanting. Just opened another bottle (2010) to have with grilled steak and it was off the charts good. Now far more elegant, softer tannins and a long beautiful finish. Spicy notes with significant fruit makes it a great accompaniment for grilled steaks, rack of lamb, ribs etc. Wow!
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A better bottle tonight and this wine never hit the Overrater HS's mid-90's. Makes me wonder about the recent Top 100 rating for current vintage. This bottle had a nose of blackberry, vanilla and sweet phenols. It remains a BIG wine from a time when Down Under was missing high on Shiraz, IMHO. Chewy tannins, big, blackberry flavors with hints of oak and vanilla in the finish. Tangy peppery finish. In retrospect, huge, sweet, overripe wines were probably a trend that would have been better off not followed. I seek more balance today and Aussieland will need to get with the program if they expect to recover from the devastating losses in US sales in recent years.
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Okay, 1.5 years ago I thought this wine had peaked, but this was the best bottle yet. Flavors of cherry, blackberry, coffee, and oak. Still rich, with excellent structure, but everything us now so well integrated. Wish this wasn't the last bottle.
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Nice concentration. The last glass was particulary well balanced and decadent, but upon opening and for the first couple of hours, this was a bit one-dimensional. Seems like bottle variation because the previous bottle I had was amazing.
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I couildn't believe how good this was. I've had this wine a few times before and found it a bit uninspiring. I think the extra year or two made a huge difference. Very complex, racey flavors. Almost sweet. I'm starting to see why Parker rates these Aussie Shiraz so highly; I think they just need that much extra time to show what they have.
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Continues to be my pnp war horse. Have gone through 6 cases of this great juice, and still have 3 cases left, which I will spread out over time. 3-5 years seems like a safe bet as far as a window for aging is concerned.
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Sampled 7/30/10. This wine keeps impressing me. Loaded with overripe blueberries there is much more to this wine as it unfolds. 4 hours decanting. Black cherries, tar, some dried brown herb, smokey Oak, minerals and a rich finish that lasts 40 seconds.
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Minneapolis Wine Club Aussie Shiraz (My House): 2nd time trying this wine and it showed really well again. Blackberries, cherry, coffee grounds, pepper and spice. Still firm tannins and I see this wine aging well and expect this to drink through 2020.
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Aussie Shiraz Wines at John's (John's): Color was dark purple, i thought a little lighter on the edges, but most didn't agree. The nose is more old world with earth, leather, hints of tobacco, coffee predominating. Very little fruit was showing through. The palate was medium bodied with good tannins and a medium finsih. I don't see how this wine could be referred to as a fruit bomb in any way. If so, there is major bottle variation.
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Definitely a notch below what this wine used to be. None of that upfront fruit. More subdued with leather and tobacco notes coming through. Still nuances of oak. I miss the fruit here. I don't get the WS drinking window on this. Already on the down slide if you ask me. Very Good
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Solid if less than spectacular, probably heading downhill. Does not seem to have the fruit and balance of mid-top end Shiraz (Octavius, Rockford Basket, E&E Black Pepper, etc.) but it would be silly to assume a $25 wine can compete with these or Grange, Hill of Grace or the other super-prems. Still, for the money, it remains a decent mouthful but one that is declining. Smoke and cherry on the nose, hints of animal, grapey berry and black pepper on the palate. Maybe a bit of brett peeking through, which is definitely a flaw but to be expected in these high alcohol, RS, low acid monsters. Should have been consumed on release, it is not aging all that gracefully. Drink within 1 year.
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Sampled 7/4/10. This wine takes about an hour to open up. The blueberries are rich and fat and dominate once the wine is open. Still, there is plenty going here to really enjoy. Some dried herbs, vanilla Oak, a long smooth finish. A very well made wine that hides its alcohol wonderfully. No rush to finish this wine off. It'll be go for another half dozen+ years with ease.
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Pretty darn good. Wasn't sure it would, but it went really well with chili, hotdogs, and fireworks. This wine is in a great place. Very easy drinking, good fruit, some smokiness, nice weight, good acidity, nice finish. Nothing mind boggling, but extremely pleasant.
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In a good place right now. Drink up. Nose of blueberry which carries onto the palate. Tangy, peppery, hint of wet dog which detracts a bit. Finishes pretty long. Again, in a good place and ready to go. Tannins are quite moderated.
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Well now this was interesting... this was nothing like my first 4 bottles. Everything seemed "muted", and there were none of the mouthwater flavors that I experienced with the first 4. Tart notes of blueberry, strawberry and cherry. Maybe a hint of herbs. I have loved previous bottles, but I was not a fan of this bottle. THIS BOTTLE: Good
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The last of my bottles, but I am sad as the first boittles I did not like - the last one is just getting better and better. It is a crime to drink it young.
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Opaque dark purple color, pronounced nose of American oak, ripe berry fruit, garden herbs and more fruit. This is fruit bomb in the true sense. This wine refuses to be ignored. Medium acid, nice balance, full bodied, and finishes well. Great value
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Decanted for 30 minutes. Was excited to try this again. I really enjoyed the last bottle I had about 18 months ago, and once again this bottle did not disappoint. The aromas seemed to be bursting out of this wine when I opened and decanted. Color was opaque and inky. Full flavored and very enjoyable.
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This wine tastes different each time I try it. Last bottle too sweet.This one had more depth and was not like a dessert wine. Nice slightly spicy flavors with good complexity. Wonder what next bottle will bring?
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Dusty red. Rustic fruit on the nose, graphite, charchol. Dark red fruits. Cranberries, ripe pie cherries on the palate. Front & mid palate is a pleasure, not deep. Drinking great right now.
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Wonderful integrated nose and balanced palate. Very rich taste explosion with a fruit forward character. Amazing PQR. Drinking perfect now peak in 2-3 years; 30 min decanting. Good for another 6 years at least.
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Bottles have been troubled with inconsitent notes, so I will score this as opposed to FLAW'n it. Fruit & acid again out of wack on this which has toubled a few bottles from about 8. See other TN's for the Good Ones.... Just seems dry and acidic, fruit dead. GuitarGuy says it, maybe these were just better young....
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Tried this about 9 months ago and was disappointed. Wine seemed closed at that point.This bottle was quite vibrant and sweet. Really not my usual syle, but the cascade of blueberry fruit was so focused and pure, I enjoyed it despite it being a fruit bomb. I can see those who like the syle rating this very high, because even though I prefer dry reds, this was quite impressive!
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Dark purple color. Upon opening you are blasted with a huge fruit bomb nose of extracted, jammy blackberry and blueberry reduction with creme de cassis added in for good measure. Really spectacular nose. After decanting for around 2 hours, the nose mellowed out a bit but still plenty of black and blue fruit jam with almost a port like aroma. More fruit on the palate along with some toasted oak, vanilla and cassis. Lush mouthfeel along with nicely integrated tannins and a smooth finish. Really nice Aussie shiraz.
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See previous notes. Had this bottle to myself after having dealt with my oldest son questioning my fairness when allocating responsibilities between him and his brother. Why are teens on a mission to age their parents faster than mother nature intended? Is there some way we can enlighten them so they know when they are insulting us? After that realization, a quick hug, an apology, and an I love you dad later, and he is on his merry way, while I'm reaching for a bottle of liquid therapy. Believe it or not, I am very blessed, with the both of them. As for this wonderful vino, it continues to maintain it's wonderful qualities. I don't think this will go as long as the drinking window states, but it's good for 3-5 years at the least, which is more than I need to finish what I have left. Yamas! 93+
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Took some time to open up, this wine never has hit Harvey the Overrater's high number. Still a good wine, maybe a decent value around $25 (could be better). Nose of blueberry, doug fir, earth, bit of VA. Blueberry, very moderate tannin, good acidity. Jiust not complex. Perhaps this would have been better consumed in '06-08.
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Served to company and only got a small glass. However limited impression was that this was nowhere near a 96 point wine. Very ripe, raisiny, almost port-like characteristics. I think guitarguy's notes are on point.
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I opened this because I was concerned about its progression, given the trajectory that seemed to be playing out with my earlier bottles as well as some recent reviews by others here. At least for this bottle, those worries were misplaced.
On the nose, strong aromatic cherry, pipe tobacco and just a slight hint of tar in the background. All of that carries to the palate, which on this bottle is very thick and remains quite forward and primary. Nicely balanced with little in the way of acidity. Some fine tannins on a medium long finish.
Bottles like this one are several years from hitting peak, but I am wondering about bottle variation given my earlier experiences and those of others below. Update: as this airs out a bit, it gets even better...thicker and more complex. Worth another point to me at this point (95). Absoultely great bottle of wine....better and more complex than some of the Amon Ra I've had. Marries well with chipolte seasoning on the Mexican-themed dinner tonight. A vastly different experience from the '94 Penfolds Grange last week (the Grange being more elegant, refined, etc), but not necessarily a lesser experience in terms of hedonistic pleasure.
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Oakey, phenolic nose, this is a bit of a wounded duck at this point. I think it was better in its youth. Now we get maturing cherry and prune flavors, a bit of oak and just kind of a muted experience. Perhaps it will recover with a bit more age, but it is also possible this was built for early consumption. It was, thankfully, an unusual Aussie, in that even though it was in the kiss of death price point ($10-50), it was never a sick, low acid, overextracted, fruit bomb monster. Not shy, but balanced, and that was a good thing. Unfortunately, I think its best days may be behind it. Drink before 2011.
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Wine is drinking very well now...has matured from a big Aussie fruit bomb to a elegant earthy mature wine. Wonderful earth and cheese on the nose with a subtle black berry and mineral (iron) on the palate. I didn't think this wine would get any better from a couple of years ago, but it has evolved nicely. Can't wait to try the next bottle in year or so.
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Dark fruits, licorice, game, smoke and cedar. Beautiful depth and texture. A medium long finish with a little spice and alcohol lingering with the fruit. Very enjoyable
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Predominately fruit of boysenberry and blackberries with a dose of toasty American oak... nice quality, text book Aussi shiraz.. had there been more complexity and finish I would have rated more highly
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I previously rated this wine higher and I do not think it is getting worse, but my comparison points this time were better wines and it suffered by comparison. Popped and poured. Very dark in color. Strong cherry fruit flavor with pepper and some blueberry. A bit monolithic compared to the grenache/syrah wines I had after it but still very enjoyable. The mouth feel is nice but there is an end of palate bite that gives a spicy feel to it.
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Dry and dull night one, opened up after 24 hours to reveal sour cherry, mild tannin and charcoal in the nose. Just okay, maybe and off bottle or perhaps this is past peak? I do think this requires a heavy decant if for no other reason than it is throwing a huge sediement but also to force it to open up and reveal that hidden fruit. No brett or instability noted, thankfully.
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Very nice and better than the last bottle. Brown sugar, dark fruit and anise dominate. This bottle was tasted by the crowd and drank so fast it literally disappeared.
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Very solid wine. Ripe and Jammy with blackberry, cherry and blueberry supported by velvety tannins and enough acidity to keep everything in balance. Plenty of blackpepper and mocha to add complexity. Well integrated toasted oak.
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Very primary bouquet with a lot of very ripe cherries. On the palate some chocolate, sweetness, soft bitterness and ripe cherries. Good acidity. Well balanced wine.
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Great smooth nose that reminds me of vanilla bean ice cream with raspberries on top. Very well balanced with a super long finish. Caramel, light chocolate, non-tart cherries. Drinks very well. Very impressed!
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I wanted something slutty so I reached reached for this bottle. Upon opening a good dose of brett on the nose. This wine is thick & clumsy with a dirty fruit characteristic and a ton of oak. WTF happened to this wine. As it ages it gets worse & worse..... 50+5+10+13+4=82-
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Better than ever. The last bottle I had seemed closed down but now I think it was a bottle variation. The wine is just so intense but without going over the line, even after several hours in a decanter it still goes on and on. The brown sugar flavors I used to notice have morphed into chocolate, heavy carmel, and deep fruit flavors with a 45 second vanilla finish. Best QPR ever for me.
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This is a Rockstar! After 2 hours in the decanter the 2004 Schild Shiraz offeres everything I'm looking for in an outstanding Barossa Shiraz: Great dark fruits (mostly ripe black cherries and plums), peppery spices, licorice and well integrated oak. I'm glad to have one bottle left, and for the price of 20€ this was a real steal!
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This bottle is a pretty significant falloff from prior outings. Not as rich or lush. The fruit has diminished quite a bit. A lot of menthol / eucalyptus, noticeable acidity. Perhaps a bad bottle, but no noticeable flaw (e.g. no TCA smell).
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taste: good smooth medium feel with medium depth and ripe, but balanced tones of dark berries, currants, black cherries and a good helping of dark red fruits
overall: an excellent wine, but isn't very expressive nor does it really kick into another gear. Good aromas and flavors with nice depth
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Very ripe aromas of blackberries, cherries, and bramble fruit on the nose. Lots of coffee, smoke and vanilla with some tar. This wine is big and bold with a lot of body. The flavors resemble a cherry liquor with dark fruit, oaky vanilla, ground coffee and some sweetness. Some acid and good tannin, but also lots of alcohol. The heat shows its self on the finish. I would probably not cellar this one. Drinking really well now.
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This wine had all the massive nose and arromatics you would want to find in my opinion. It had a Parker Nose with a Spectator palate. The palate was less impressive than the nose, but it came out silky and lots of fruit. For the price, I wish every Shiraz was this pleasing. I wouldn't think twice about opening my other bottle in the near future.
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Aussie Shiraz Tasting at Edina C.C.: Nose: Massive blackberry attack with some tar and mint. After aeration the tar went away and nuances of lavender and bell pepper appeared. Palate: Blackberry with spicy black licorice and a clean medium length finish. Close 2nd for WOTN (along with the Greenock Creek Alice's Shiraz), but my WOTN for value at aprox $30/bottle (a steal).
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Very Solid, enjoyable, delicious. Dark, blue-violent color, with emerging aromas of blue fruits and vanilla. No component was ever out of balance, or lacking as this went down extremely smoothly. Not particularly interesting, however; perhaps subtlety is yet to emerge...
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Dark in the glass, thick. Smoky black & blue fruits on the nose. Liquid blueberries and other black fruits with glycerin across the palate, coats the mouth. Some of the fruit seems as others have noted, has a burnt aspect to the palate. Not quite tar, nor a espresso roast being done Italian style, just burnt, in a kinda good way. Will be interesting to see how that aspect develops over the years. Solid finish, lingering, not a real deep finish, and not a very complex wine. A solid effort with great fruit, impressive.
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First night this was entirely unforgiving. Almost tasted and smelled like a cup of coffee with vanilla cream. Started to open up late in the night to at least get some dark fruit on the palate. Second day, this was much better. I still find the nose pretty closed, with a bit of black olive, coffee and dark fruits. On the palate, there is a nice blast of dark red and black fruits, some cocoa and just maybe some pepper. A big, dark wine, though the weight is not huge or syrupy. Not completely my style, but nice on day 2 for $29. Not sure there is enough fruit to last too many years, especially in relation to the non-fruit aspects. I would suggest drinking in the next few years with a decent decant.
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Nose has summer fruit pudding with vanilla cream, there's also some blackberry after topping up the glass. Palate is a little less giving; burnt fudge, tar. Finish starts sweet then continues with a slight burnt/toastiness which is fairly long.
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Got better as the night progressed and unfortunately this wine did not get the proper wine glass it deserved. It actually lacked the fruit a normal aussie shiraz normally has and I tasted mostly the oak.
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Comparison with 2004 Langmeil and Kessler The Bogan. On opening taste it was number one with rich spicy red fruit and long finish. After three hours it dropped to last as the others picked up and it seemed the finish dropped off on this one
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As intense as usual, but this time there was a lot of heavy eucalyptus and alcohol. The bouquet of brown sugar/vanilla was there as usual but those flavors were more muted and the berry and pepper shone through. This could have been because of a three hour decant.
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Several of these over the last 18 months with some bottle inconsistency.
Dark in the glass, sweet black/blue nose wafting from the glass & on the nose. nice purple color & legs. Sharp fruit attack, smooth mid palate then deep long finish, lingering with sweet fruit. Some bottles had a bit of tar & pencil for me as well with a bit of that overextracted thing, bit too much acid on a few that said variation in a bad way, those were more along the lines of 89 pts.
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Wineflock - Recent Acquisitions (Caro Mio): Big bright violet floral black fruit nose with a touch of heat. Big jammy black fruit with violet notes. Super ripe and sweet.
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Flock - Recent Acquisitions (Chicago, IL): Huge nose boasting aromas of toasty black fruit, olives, mineral, brown sugar and spice. Round, delicious and toasty on the palate. For those that like the ripe and rich -- this is excellent, high quality Shiraz.
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Huge nose of black fruits, tar, spices, vanilla and a little alcohol. Much more enjoyable and complex in the mouth though with flavours of blueberries and plums infused with smoke, tar, earth and faint meaty notes, a plush texture and chewy tannins at the back. Finishes long but with a little warmth.
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Aging nicely. Not as strong on the dark berry nose as previously which is a sign that it is balancing out nicely. An excellent wine that I am happy to have more of in the cellar.
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An example of old overrater Harvey's false exuberance, I do not ever see this reaching the 96 point level. This particular bottle seemed weak and off, very disjointed. Nose of ripe raspberry and smoke, I also detected a hint of peaty smoke (like Lagiviulin) and blueberry but a ton of heat and acidity that really soured this experience. Tore the enamel off my teeth. Not very good, let's hope my other 13 are a lot better.
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Very very good high end shiraz from one of Australia's premier producers. Enjoyed with good friend neighborbill and other friends after dinner with pool. Second bottle I have had from this producer, first '04I've had, very good, very smooth, highly recommend this and expect it will continue to improve under cellaring conditions for at least 5-10 years to come. Almost inky black, very smooth, good mouth feel and very pleasant long lingering aftertaste. Nose fruity, floral and somewhat muted with dark stone fruit and dark cherry present. Primary flavors included eucalyptus, vanilla, tar, leather, some smoke on the aftertaste.
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Nose of sweet buttery scented raspberry crossiants, a confectioniers delight. Lots of ripe berry, sassy spices and italian cold cuts. Ripe plum, blueberry and strawberry liqueur. Thick, unctous, but not over the top at all. moderate finish of plum flavor.
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Wow...this is a great wine. Harmoneous...deep fruit that is in check. Nice concetration that is wonderfully integrated. Deep grape, kiwi, supple tannins. Love it.
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This was an odd bottle. I popped the cork about an hour before we started tasting it next to a 2004 Mitolo GAM. The nose was a little muted, but still classic Shiraz. The initial taste was odd...not necessarily bad...but like a manufactured taste rather than a natural taste. Faux Shiraz. It was too smooth, too muted, too....everything. I took an instant dislike to it, not unlike overoaked Cabs or Chards that went overboard on the malolactic fermentation process. I tried it again at the end of the evening and it was turning into pretty darned good wine. Dark fruit, caramel, vanilla flavors...plenty of structure to last a few years. I would want to try this wine again and see if it has evolved or is truly a manufactured bottle of wine.
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Opened my first bottle for Father's Day. It did not disappoint. Deep purple color. It just offers so much and is so well integrated. A creamy strawberry fruit flavor, slight mint and smoke, honey and spices, vanilla all singing together with nice acids. A long berry stained finish. It is the kind of wine you just want one more sip of after the previous one fades away.
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Very nice. Drinking really well - in fact, I liked this better than previous bottles. This evening it showed more structure, and I think it will be even better with another year or two of cellaring.
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Followed a bottle of Into The Dark by SQN, which was brought unexpectedly to my home by Dave, to celebrate an important event. It was a total of 2 hours plus before we sampled this wine, and while it wasn't in the same league with the SQN red, it was it's usual rock solid self.
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I enjoyed this despite myself. After months of knocking the Aussie fruit bomb, this one was surprisingly solid. Well integrated, smokey oak, great body, fruit-forward but not syrupy-sweet, the fruit was well maintained within the overall structure of the wine. Made me reevaluate my unqualified rejection of all Barossa/McLaren Aussie bombs.
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Day 1 - Amber red in color. On the nose cedar and alcohol. Full bodied & tight with a ton of oak and a hint of red fruit. Rather dry and tannic finish. It's been a while since I've tried this wine and this bottle is rather unimpressive. I'll gas and put in the fridge & try tomorrow. rating reserved Day 2 - Poured and let it sit in the glass to let it come up to proper temp. Oak, oak and more oak. As the wine warmed the alcohol became more prevalent. Could it be bottle variation? I remember tasting this wine about 18 mos ago & was blown away. 50+5+11+14+4=84
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Big, bold Aussie bomb. What I wanted and expected from the Boxer, this wine delivers. Nose of chocholate and vanilla, tastes of smooth and silky berries with integrated smokey oak. Decanted and filtered, good wine, but not 96 points in my opinion.
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How can you go wrong with this wine? Served it at my wife's cousin's bridal shower. Incredible QPR. I have gone through 3 cases of this, and am looking forward to finishing off the remaining 6 as the flavors meld over time. This wine has a long life ahead of it, and will just keep getting better.
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drank with my brother along side the robert mondavi reserve. And I thought it stood up very well. But blueberry, smokey, anise. Great balance with a big finish.
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I opened one of my bottles of this over the weekend with family. My first try of this WS96 pointer. A round and voluptuous wine. Deep red color with notes of roasted coffee beans and plum. Not overly extracted and a very well made wine. Full bodied with moderate tannins. 92 points.
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I say this is excellent because it is well made and the tannins are still integrated well but this is a HUGE fruit bomb, fruit mine, fruit missile, fruit charge...and on and on.
The nose is all blue fruit with a medicinal smell that blows off quickly. The palate is so fruit forward that you're almost done after 3oz. The palate is ripe blueberry and cherry jam with a nice grip.There is also a nice integration of vanilla. (Oak) Little bit of a chocolate finish underneath with the fruit lasting 10+ seconds. New world Aussie lovers will continue to get joy for the next couple of years. There's plenty of sediment on the pour so filter decant.
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Aussie Wines Offline (Canyon Lodge American Grill - Laguna, CA): Harvey Steiman is the man! He called this wine and even though I would not go so far as to give it 96 points, it is nonetheless an outstanding shiraz -- and for $25 quite a steal! Sumptuous notes of brown sugar, toffee nut, dark chocolate, and plum jam. Wonderfully rich and full on the palate. 93-94 points.
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notes from mem: very dark fruit on the nose. Nice balance and full bodied. Not OTT like all the other Aussie SHiraz'a I've had. Structurd, creamy finish.
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Loads of vanilla and delicious ripe berry fruit in this one in the glass and on the nose. Can't really think of anything negative to say about it. It was a favorite at our weekly wine geeks dinner. I'm sure Mark's Bordeaux that tasted like sweat socks and "smelled like a fat lady" helped this one shine but I think it would have anyway. Not sure how this can get any better but I'll save the last bottle for something special.
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Popped and poured. Extremely dark and vibrant purple color. One of most beautiful wine's I've seen. Nose of ripe blueberries, cinnamon and vanilla. Ripe fruit in the mouth, full bodied, smooth, fine tannins, great balance. Good wine, it wold benefit from another year or two a bottle age.
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Wonderful rich wine. Drinking very smooth with a hint of vanilla with a little pepper. Not real strong in any area. Drank with a few friends after the Rotary Tour of Homes and everyone enjoyed this wine.
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This is my third bottle. It is mellowing just a bit. Still lots of red and blue fruits. No long teeth staining intensity. Smooth drinking and very well balanced. Some vanilla in the background, not a lot of spice, but some pepper begining to poke its nose through the fruit forward assault (in a nice way) on your palate. There was also noticeable coffee, which I had not gotten in the prior bottles. I was at Morton's and kept looking around to see if someone was drinking coffee, but I was in the bar room and I didn't see anyone with a cup. Everyone I drink this with who is not a "wineaux" loves it.
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Bottle was better than previously - First one about 1 year ago was disappointing - but wish that I hung onto more. Fruit forwards, peppery, nice dark garnet color. Very enjoyable and a decent length on the finish.
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No dtl'd notes. Ran neck and neck with the 2002 Beringer Private Reserve for WOTN Saturday @ Jeff's annual ER outing. Very rich and long. The btl didn't last long enough to determine whether a 2nd day falloff would occur, as happened with a prior btl.
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Just delicious. Loads of fruit, blackberry, plum, sweet spices. The finish goes on and on. This will be incredible in another couple of years. I need more.
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Delicious. Extraordinary bouquet of blueberry and heavy molasses. Brown sugar, vanilla, dark berries on a very very long finish. Yes, a heavy wine but it has finesse. We actually had it with portobella lasagna and it did not destroy the food...
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Opened but not decanted. Inky dark color opaque throughout. Powerful nose of blueberry and brown sugar. The nose outshines the palate, which has some blueberry, plum and spice. Ample tannins still present and showing some heat initially. Nice mouthfeel and nice balance, but I'll wait another year or so before opening my next bottle.
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Had as one of my birthday wines. Incredible again. As soon as you open this, the nose just fills the entire room. Blueberry, Blackberry, pepper, vanilla and oak. The tannins are still very strong, and I detected more heat than I remember from last time. This is still a remarkable wine. 93-95 points.
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Big beautiful shiraz,dittos to all the other reviews. Must decant for at least 45 minutes.. Lovely,as it explodes on your palate. Dark fruit,blueberry, crushed berries etc. etc.
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Great fruit and intensity, both on nose and palate. Not a ton of structure....wasn't as good the second day...didn't totally fall apart, but significant decline.
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I finally got to taste this wine with my taste buds on full alert. The initial nose is one of butter rum, caramel, blueberry syrup, and sweet crushed violets along with black licorice and toasted vanilla oak. This is a super ripe hedonistic shiraz full of extraction, concentration and alcohol. But it all comes together in the signature Aussie style. This reminds me a lot of the 04 MP 9 Shiraz. It's got that candied style like they should have a Jelly Belly flavor named after it.
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Double decanted using my shiny new decanting funnel, then served 4 hours later.
Rich, concentrated purple in the glass. Nose consists of a combination of blackberry, blueberry and chocolate. Almost undetectable notes of vanilla. Big blast of deep black fruit immediately upon tasting, and a silky smooth wave of dark chocolate on the midpalate. Pleasantly mouth-coating. Medium to full-bodied with a velvety texture. Nice balanced finish of 45 seconds or so without any noticeable heat or overwhelmingly drying tannins. I really love this wine. With sufficient breathing time, it really sings.
40+5+5+18+18+8=94
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Excellent wine for the money. Plenty of fruit on the nose and palate with a nice finish...smooth and velvety. Drink now, no need to wait. This is a excellent wine.
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Strong nose of brown sugar, licorice and butterscotch. Smooth mouthfeel. Black fruit, rum butter, espresso, pepper and graphite. Smooth tannins. Great QPR. At the original pricepoint this wine is a steal.
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Big and ripe, typical shiraz palate, though well balanced and not syrupy despite the extract. Surprisingly good length. Well made. Inflated WS score, but a nice QPR nevertheless.
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I'm disappointed to say that I don't remember much about this bottle. Girl said it improved with food, but I cannot recall anything. Will be much more careful with my remaining bottles.
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I really really really like this wine. This one was a pop and pour after a two hour car ride, compared to my last one which had a 90 minute decant. Lots of blue and red fruits with spice and a great mouth feel. Like I have said before, if you think that Aussie Shiraz belongs on pancakes, this wine is not for you. There is no delicacy here, just up front nose and up front flavor, but I do not find it disjointed. The color is very dark. After a while in the bottle, the last few ounces were starting to show some secondary flavors and secondary aromas. There was a bit of wood, but it was not oak. Sort of a cross between oak and cedar, and the pepper was sneaking out. I will try to keep a few of these to see how they age, but it will be hard to keep my hands off them.
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It had its strong points, but it was just all out of whack...way too much black pepper...no harmony amongst the parts. Based on the disconnect between my impression and others' ratings, I would have thought it was a flawed bottle, but it didn't taste like one.
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Call me impressionable, but I thought this an especially great wine. Great color! Great initial presence! Great complexity...fruit galore! Great finish and nose. What else is needed?
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Decanted and poured. Full-bodied wine that is dark magenta/purple in color. On the nose, blackberries, flowers, and cocoa. On the palate, oodles of dark berry fruit, licorice, and vanilla. I was prepared to be disappointed in this wine after all the attention it has garnered, but I was instead very pleasantly surprised. Massively endowed with fruit, but not over-the-top in Aussie sweetness, this wine has good balance and an incredibly persistent 40+ second finish. Great QPR!
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Sweet nose of blueberry, plum and maple syrup. Yes, maple syrup. Very dark in the glass. REALLY needed to be decanted for at least 2 hrs. Definitely changed a lot. At first, tasted tart and green, almost mouth puckering. After 2 hrs, tastes just as good as the nose, which is excellent. Medium-full bodied, with an inexplicable silky mouthfeel which is prevalent only in great wines. Medium finish, very well balanced. A steal for under $30. I have 3 more bottles. I wish I had more.
40+5+5+18+18+7=93
Next day - overnight in the decanter did even more good - this wine exhibits terrific aromas of black berries and brown sugar, flavors of black berries, chocolate and spice, and a nice velvety finish that goes on for 45 seconds. A wonderful value for the price. Maybe the best value wine I have had yet. Pretty damn good! Anyone want to trade? Bumping up to 95 pts.
3rd Day - had a glass or so left, and its really softened into a mellow, dark wine with aromas and flavors of chocolate and coffee. A really well made wine. Im a big fan. Sticking with 95 pts.Above score reflects 93 for day one and 95 afterward.
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Blind Night (Jeff): Blackberries, boysenberries, blueberries, leather and earth. Very one dimensional. A bit alcoholic on the finish. Very tiring to drink. Big tannins. My first guess was an over the top Central Coast or Napa Syrah. After finding out it was Australian, I thought either Molly Dooker or Marquis-Phillips. Not a fan of this style. 14.5% alcohol. Brought by Mattias.
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ok; this is like buttah! very very rich and smooth. what was written by w/s earlier has come true. my first bottle last year bit me hard. but now it is kissing me ever so softly. if you can find this now, buy it. for the money, you will be very happy. that's all i know. bg
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Harvey says to wait until 2008, but who can wait? Same notes as before, but I highly recommend decanting this wine before drinking it -- otherwise you might find it a bit too acidic and disjointed. However, after two hours in the decanter, it was drinking beautifully.
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Decanted 90 minutes before first drinking. The initial nose upon decanting was bright fruits, blackberry, blueberry and plums, with a touch of sweetness. This is a wonderful Aussie Shiraz to my taste. If you complain about too sweet, too much fruit, and pancake syrup, you may not like this one, but I find it very smooth and easy to drink with a lot of blue fruits and plums. Somtimes I like wines with flavors that I don't have to stuggle to find, especially with a nice roast beef, baked potato and roasted Brussel sprouts dinner. Excellent mouth feel. A bit of sweetness from the fruit. Very little European syrah pepper and spice but there is a bit in the background. May come out more as it ages. The color is extremely dark, almost black in the glass. Long finish. Alcohol is unobtrusive although the bottle says 14.1% to 16%. Goes down very easy. After reading a lot of Mollydooker Carnival of Love TNs, some good, some very critical, this wine seems like the value priced version of what other people are describing about COL, which I have not yet had.
Closure is "Diam" fake cork. Hope it will hold because I want to let a few of these age to see how it develops. I gave a bottle of this to a non-wineaux for his birthday dinner with his wife and he liked it so much, he sent me two thank you e-mails.
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Fairly unimpressive on day 1, although the deep hue was noteworthy. It really opened up the second day. Brown sugar, blackberries, and a lovely mouthfeel and finish with a hint of pepper. Not quite a 96 pointer for me, but a very,very nice QPR wine.
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It tastes like someone poured cream over a bowl of liquefied rasberries and smoked a cigar right before eating-- then you cracked a little pepper on your tongue. I expected a lot from this wine, and knew that this bottle may have been opened a little early-- but it was as good as advertised. I have 5 more bottles-- I know there will be at least 5 more great days in my life. It's for real on this one.
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Decanted for 1.5 hrs and drank over the next 2 hrs. This shiraz exhibited a dark inky purple color. On the nose, a beautiful bouquet of blackberries, plums, blueberries, black raspberries, and coffee with hints of pepper. On the palate, this shiraz continues to be a rich and jammy shiraz with flavors of plums, raspberries, blackberries wrapped up in a peppery silky smooth finish. My WOTN. HS94
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Tasted twice and it just doesn't measure up. The body is lacking, definitely no finish and the nose is somewhat weak. Not sure what wine spectator was thinking.
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OUTSTANDING Full bodied and balanced like no Shiraz I have ever tasted. Full of dark fruit and well structured with serious integrated tannins. If I could buy wmore I would!
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Damn...this is good! I was sceptical with all the talk of over-scored, over-hyped......but this is pretty nice juice! Rich and juicy blackberry/wild berry fruit....HUGE exotic spice, dried wintergreen tobacco, cherry cordials, kirsch, toffee. Full bodied, full flavored, somewhat exotic, well integrated woods. Not too sweet/oaked/over the top. I think this drinks wonderful! Especially for $24!
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Incredible nose of brown sugar, vanilla, and dark fruit. Silky mouthfeel with espresso, chocolate, spice and blueberry flavors. Should continue to evolve and improve with some age. A great wine for a cold soggy afternoon.
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Very good nose and pleasing aroma. Needs to be decated. Velvety and soft on the mouth, well balnced with blueberries, black cherries, plums, vanilla bean and sweet spices. A lot going on here. Will only get better with time.
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Excellent wine for the money. Plenty of fruit on the nose and palate with a nice finish...smooth and velvety. Drink now, no need to wait. This is a excellent wine.
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WOW!! Easily the best $28 shiraz we have had to date. Smooth and velvety with cherries and spices. A hidden mineral quality. So good I rushed back to the store to by more of it the very next day. Found out afterwards that WS had scored it so highly.
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At this stage this was OTT for me. Very lush and jammy with layers of blueberry/raspberry, menthol and vanilla. It tasted too lush. I feel it was in balance and so my score reflects the potential improvement in the next 3-5 years.
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First night had a weird funk on the nose but on the 2nd night, bottle evolved into a well rounded wine with some dark berries and anise and pepper. Has all the syrah notes but well integrated tannins. They're present but the sweet chocolate and dark fruit flavors help mellow them out. Nice wine! I would say it'll age for a few years. If decanting, decant a while...First sip was too sweet but wine became much better on day 2.
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Have to go against the grain here. American oak was to evident, though the fruit/mouthfeel was nice if not complex. Popped and poured with friends, no chance to decant or let sit awhile. Hoping this will get better with age/decanting.
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Too good to be true for the money. Best QPR in a long time. Buy all you can, because this baby is going long-term and imagine it even gets better :-) Very important: decant at least 4 hours... and try to save some for the next or even the day after the next, because it will become better and better!!!
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Popped and drank in a plastic cup in a hotel...and still showed a 92 or 93. Young, but incredibly good. Bright fruit, black raspberry, loads of vanilla and brown sugar. With all of that, surprisingly not as much of a fruit bomb as I suspected. Nice pretty floral perfume that floats above the fruit. Impressive balance for a young Aussie. Don't know if this will ever reach the 96 points WS gave it, but for the money, it gets awfully close.
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Now that the fuss is over, I feel safe trying this wine. Initially tart and acidic upon opening, but after about an hour and a half in the decanter, it started to mellow out to become more round. Lush and festive nose of molasses, brown sugar, and holiday spices. Silky mouthfeel, elegant even, not at all syrupy or hot like some Australian Shirazes. Very balanced and multi-layered, with rich plum and dark chocolate notes, some molasses and blueberry on the midpalate, and finishing with touch of cranberry and cherry. Medium-full body. Medium acidity. All in all, a very nice, complex wine that will only improve with time and is a steal for the price. 92+
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My second bottle, this one showed a lot better than the first. My notes are consistent with those already posted. Nice bottle, a decent value, but nowhere near a 96 pointer.
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Decanted for 3 hrs. Inky black with classic shiraz aromas of plum, blueberry, blackberry, raspberry and hints of spice. On the palate, this was a rich and jammy shiraz with flavors of plums, blackberries, raspberries wrapped in a smooth peppery finish. Very nice and now I'm glad that it didn't break WS Top 100, so more for us at the release price. HS94
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Not a 96, at least not now with this bottle. It should never surprise me when the Speculator overrates a wine. I swear I had purchased 6 of these but WineX sent and charged me for 18 so I kept them rather than argue and return them to LA. Check your orders from WineX very closely, they keep screwing mine up. Nose is classic shiraz, fruit and earth. There are substantial tannins, although they are not overpowering the fruit in this wine. There is a lot of tar and chocolate in the initial flavor profile wiht a tad of bitterness. Finish is okay, not overly long but pleasantly lasting. I am surprised the fruit is not more bright, it is quite dark. Oak is also evident in the mouth. Overall, I think this will evolve into a good wine for $25 but it will never reach 96 points and a blow-out QPR as suggested by Harvey Steiman and some others here.
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for the score WS gave this I was expecting more. It's a good wine not a typical shiraz though. Good fruit w/ a lot of acidity. some floral notes, dark fruit, very dark in the glass w/good balance.
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Had to drink this because the bottle was ever-so-slightly cracked upon delivery on Tuesday night. So, I poured the wine from the cracked bottle into a decanter, covered with cling wrap, and threw it in the fridge. So, technically this was opened for 24 hours. Huge wine. Ink-staining black. The nose... oh the nose. Brown sugar, blueberry, blackberry, spice, eucalyptus and vanilla bean. All of the same on the palate with some chocolate notes. Rich and jammy. Persistant tannins, and a long finish. Very deserving of the WS score in my eyes. Wonderful, I bought a case thinking I'd flip a few, but this is just too good... I'm keeping them all!!! 94-96 points.
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I gave this an 88 and Sweetie gave it a 92 - so the 90 is a compromise. Very big fruit right up front, jammy and thick. Way too much of something for me in the finish, think it was eucalyptus. For the price - I'm willing to put a bottle or 2 down to try later - Sweetie is ready to get a case. It's all about taste.
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Color is dark purple. Nose shows plum, dark berry, hint of tar, and spice. On the palate, soft plum and blackberry meld with mild earthy notes...a good dose of acidity keeps it lighter on its feet.
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jammy, blackberry, little cloudy, pinkish edges Nose: hot, pepper, soury cherry, sage, earth, oak, mint Pal: full round cherries, blackberries, fruit bomb up front, chocolate, vanilla, jammy, plum, pepper, sour on back, could be complex Feel: full and jammy, very big Finish: long TC9
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Nice nose of mollases and brown sugar. Very smooth on the palate with no hard edges. Nice finish, but somewhat one dimensional. I don't see the 96 that WS gave this wine, but it is a solid offering nonetheless.
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Deep reddish purple in color, on the nose licorice & cocoa. Full bodied wine with plum and milk chocolate tones, mouth coating, hugely concentrated and extremely well BALANCED! One of the best Aussie shiraz's I've tasted. At $21.15 inclusive, I'm definately looking to add to the other 9 bottles! 50+5+14+18+8=95 pts
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I opened one tonight at an offline with R2-D2, J3, and Steve8. This was compared to some italian wines, and it was a relative beast! Huge Pride-like nose, a little jammy, definitely Aussie shiraz, although I didn't find that minty side I like in Shiraz. On the palate it was quite full-bodied but not over-extracted or sweet, with a long finish. No bitterness, this is a nice and round wine. The alcohol was listed as 14.1-16%, and I would bet it's somewhere in the middle- it felt like 15% or so. This could probably use a little time to settle down, and the question was raised whether or not a wine like this improves with age. I don't know. In my books it's worth about 90 or 91 points right now. I'll have another crack at one in a few months.
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Decanted ½ hr. Strong, dense blueberry and mint nose. Predominately rich and concentrated blueberry and plum with a nice combination of secondary flavors of blackberry, pepper, spice, eucalyptus and tar. A touch sweet with a silky texture, polished tannins and some acidity, yet slightly thin on the back of the palate with a medium finish. Excellent Shiraz for the price.
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Wow to find this in a wine bar... lucky me. Classic Aussie Shiraz. Taste and nose developed well in the glass. Drank in a bar so it's tough to go back and give a detailed description but I can tell you that this wine can hold it's own with some of the best. Drinks well now but the structure is there I'd hold on a while before diving in. If I could find some, I'd buy it in a second. 93ish today... 95+ in a few years.
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Complex and aromatic wine. I can't see the WS 96 yet but in a few years, who knows. It does have layers and layers of flavors, blueberries, spice, pepper, tar, smoke. I will hold the others for another couple of years before cracking the next one.
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drank one early from a case purchase to see if it was worth the 96 points the WS gave it. The wine was dark, inky with a berrylike nose and a hint of pepper. Typical Shiraz. Great legs and body. This was definitely close to mid 90's and represents serious value at 24 dollars.
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What a Fantastic and Smooth, Velvety wine this was. Couldn't believe how great the taste was on this. Black Cherry and Plum and spices. Just couldn't wait on this one. Was worth opening early.
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8/28/2023 - grossie Likes this wine: 89 Points
Still going strong, barely any real age showing. No hard edges, nice wine, though it's a bit simple.
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12/4/2022 - Frijole wrote:
inky black burgundy red, little clarity, dusty ruby hue
Nose: roasted plum, black cherry, cigar, tobacco, black pepper, clove, dust, cola, oak
Pal: roasted plum, black cherry, cigar, tobacco, dark chocolate, black pepper, clove, dust, caramel, cola, oak
Feel: medium, touch cloying
Finish: medium
T8
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5/19/2022 - Burgundy Al wrote: 88 Points
Still drinking wonderfully for its age with good concentration and freshness for its age, even if a bit one dimensional.
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3/27/2021 - Paul Lin wrote: 89 Points
A fun shiraz as always, just more mellowed out. This has retained some of plum jam and umeboshi notes from back in 2011 and still has a lot of life ahead of it. A very solid wine for the price.
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1/16/2021 - Marc S wrote: 93 Points
- Garnet color with medium forming legs. It's balanced and has flavours of blackberry, raspberry and strawberry with a medium body. Juicy texture with a medium finish - Excellent wine.
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12/25/2020 - grossie Likes this wine: 90 Points
Still big and burly, but quite a pleasure to drink. I don't know where this is going, if it will lose the fruit or not, but it's still really nice.
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11/18/2020 - LotionInTheBasket Likes this wine:
Famed 2004 vintage, I decanted for about 3 hours prior to a virtual drink up. It had some sediment so there was some prep work. In the glass its dark ruby and garnet, no browning or orange that I could see, just some slight thinning. Otherwise its pretty opaque and dense, good legs. The nose is dark fruit, leaning black, licorice, and mint/menthol, some smoke. It opened up even more over the next 3 hours and it got more complex; smoke turn spice notes (baking spice?). The front was blackberry as the front-runner, eucalyptus, a touch mint, white pepper, it gets more forward as time passes/ opens up further. Not out of whack, just more pure. the middle hold medium+ acid with the fruit mellowing and tannins kicking in with some grip. The back holds that bite with the fruit as the anchor and rides out nicely, well integrated and balanced however maybe a bit shorter than preferred. No burn. Its a good bottle holding some age and giving. Its drinking well now and doesn't have any more runway to improve. My other will go in the near future.
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7/24/2020 - grossie Likes this wine: 90 Points
Really nice wine! Big but not completely overblown. Still has life left
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5/27/2019 - wine4ever wrote: 90 Points
Last of our half case. Still in prime window - just not as fruity as it once was...more smokey and oaky now with eucalyptus and licorice. Still complex and interesting. Great with BBQ.
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1/27/2019 - Marc S wrote: 89 Points
- Garnet color. It's balanced and has flavours of blackberry and black currant with a medium/full body. Juicy texture with a medium finish - Shared with study group. Very good bottle of wine that is at its prime.
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4/13/2018 - erictayl wrote: 93 Points
This was firing last night. From memory and no details but it was smooth and complex and perfectly integrated. Last of a case...wish I had more!
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9/1/2017 - wine4ever wrote: 91 Points
Still nice, but nearing the end of it's prime drinking window. Interesting nose and palate: lots of eucalyptus and licorice and some oak, fruit is fading, but it is still present - still a very nice drink. Smooth, lots of glycerin, fairly big wine. Drink now-2018 for current level of yumminess.
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8/6/2017 - Rollerball wrote:
Last bottle of a great QPR case (purchased before the deceptive later release of lower quality wine under exact same label and vintage). Nearing end of peak as the sweet oak and fruit are still there but without the fruit's prior punch. Drink this year or next to get the most of this. -2018
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3/10/2017 - grossie Likes this wine: 90 Points
Big. Developed some complexity by night 2. Good wine, never going to be great in my books. Drink up, or wait another 5-10 years, I'm not sure it matters!
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1/20/2017 - mxpbuy Likes this wine: 91 Points
I don't think this was one of "re-release" bottles made up of "fake" Schild estate syrah, but the wine is clearly on its downside as it lacked the consistent density and seamless layering of black and blue fruits that it had 4 or 5 years ago.
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12/30/2016 - Gti2ton wrote: 91 Points
Inky black, with deep licorice and plum notes, that are framed by the mid length tannins on the finish. Not particularly my style, however, I can't deny the overall quality of this wine for what it is.
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12/26/2016 - Oldmanzin Likes this wine: 92 Points
Dark fruits and a licorice with a little wildness to the finish. No hard edges. This is the best wine from this producer. Due to the success of a highly rated wine in 2004, they falsified the contents of their product in a subsequent vintage to address the demand. Consequently, the wine has never matched the quality of the 2004 vintage.
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12/12/2016 - Prariecellar wrote: 94 Points
Now only have three bottles left, but it is till getting better. Perfect Balance, Long finish. I wish all my purchases were this good.
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11/16/2016 - gondrik wrote: 95 Points
Great Shiraz in perfect balance. Have had a number over the years and have never been disappointed, but this is the best bottle to date.
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9/16/2016 - levinml wrote: 93 Points
Know this is from the famous vintage where Wine Spectator de-listed them from the top 10, but I must have gotten one of the good bottles, because this was really nice. Compares favorably to my favorite zins (Turley, Carlisle, etc.) due to drinkability and lack of tannin. Good, deep fruit flavors and easy drinking.
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3/27/2016 - Teebs Likes this wine: 92 Points
Still holding up incredibly well.
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3/10/2016 - Marc S wrote: 93 Points
- Garnet color with medium forming legs. It's in total harmony and has flavours of blackberry and black currant with a medium body. Juicy texture with a medium finish - This wine has reached its peak. The nose is fantastic. Loaded with fruit. Chocolate permeates the wine with hints of blackberry, strawberry. This wine in berry good.
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2/20/2016 - Rollerball wrote: 92 Points
2004s around the world: Delicious but I don’t see it improving with more age. Enough oomph to probably last 5+ years but why not enjoy this at peak while its exciting blackberry and coffee chords remain so beautifully bold.
At its best -2018 but drinkable longer.
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1/24/2016 - wine4ever Likes this wine: 94 Points
Best showing for this wine to date. Lovely nose. Medium-full bodied, nice structure. Mix of dark fruits, chocolate and mineral. Very, very nice! Tempted to drink the rest of my stash, but will check back in a year or so.
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1/17/2016 - Rollerball wrote: 92 Points
dark berries. Earthy smokey. Finally integrated and still young in a way. -2022
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6/4/2015 - Altiplano Likes this wine: 93 Points
Big and bold. Classic Shiraz. Still drinking great. Definitely at peak.
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5/30/2015 - Altiplano Likes this wine: 93 Points
This wine has peaked. Big, but soft on the palate. Drink up.
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5/19/2015 - sunalsorises wrote: 90 Points
Better than previous bottle. Still fruity. A bit off balance.
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5/12/2015 - longhorncab Likes this wine: 94 Points
Tasting as good as ever, with great fruit, palate weight, and lively structure. Probably peaking though
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4/14/2015 - papabluez wrote: 91 Points
This is absolutely in its "sweet spot." A gorgeous wine, especially for the price. My patience has paid dividends. Actually one of the most enjoyable wines I've had in awhile. Well balanced throughout with a wonderful nose and long, savory, spicy finish. Chocolate covered blackberries! The tannins are well resolved leaving the wine velvety delicious! Find it if you can!
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3/17/2015 - sunalsorises wrote: 88 Points
Not as good as previous bottle. A bit hot on the finish. Took a while for the fruit to open up.
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2/19/2015 - tcosgriff Likes this wine: 93 Points
Purple color with a bouquet and flavor of plums and cherries, followed by a bit of pepper in the finish. Nice balance with good body and nuance, and a rather long ending. A Second bottle tasted six months later showed some decline. Drink up any that you still have.
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12/27/2014 - TXRhoneRanger wrote: 92 Points
Drinking great. still lovely fruit, some good structure, tannins are resolved and it lasted over 2 days. 4 glasses over 2 days. Delicious.
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12/1/2014 - GoBlue2002 Likes this wine: 90 Points
This wine opened musty and tight, taking a good hour in the decanter to begin showing much fruit. Initially it reminded me of moderate-age brunello - low fruit, leather, tar, slightly high acid, granular tannins.
Over time this unwound, showing a meaty profile as well as black cherry, smoked meat, and spice; with smooth and soft tannins. This paired well with burgers, especially the ones topped with sauteed onions and spicy mustard.
Me - 90, Wife - 92.
Even now, I recommend decanting a minimum of 1 hr prior to drinking, 2-3 if you can. Based on this experience, I wouldn't hold these for too much longer.
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11/22/2014 - Marc S wrote: 89 Points
- Brick color with medium forming legs. It's balanced and has flavours of blackberry, black currant and licorice anise with a medium body. Juicy texture with a medium finish - Dark fruit and lots of licorice. Great tasting wine.
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11/2/2014 - Grinner wrote: 93 Points
18th Annual Lyon 10 Year Retrospective (Lyon Down Inn): Another ripe wine in this tasting, it has pronounced black licorice overtone with deep black fruit, espresso, tar, and oak. Long finish stood out, and its great QPR given its original price. 91 on day 2.
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11/2/2014 - jkwoodward Likes this wine: 95 Points
Drank at a Shiraz tasting, really stood out. Fruity but soft, long finish with leather on the nose. Outstanding. Excellent value.
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10/13/2014 - Chrism422 wrote: 95 Points
Wonderful! I’ve saved this beauty for 8 years and it was worth every minute. Velvety and nuanced earthiness. Every sip was a new experience.
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9/8/2014 - Burgundy Al wrote: 89 Points
Still drinking nicely with ripe black plum, dark chocolate, vanilla, dark roast coffee, some sweet spice. Everything still fresh enough that this retains good balance.
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8/21/2014 - jkwoodward Likes this wine: 94 Points
Tight out of the fridge, opened spectacularly after an hour in the decanter. Super fruity at first, then the pepper and dark berries came into play. Black fruit, white pepper and tobacco on the nose. Silky tannins with a medium finish. RTD now, next tasting with Grinner in November!
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7/24/2014 - wine4ever Likes this wine: 91 Points
Quite delicious and drinking very well right now. Fruity, but not jammy. Lovely nose. Full bodied. Not overly oaky or sweet. Complex flavors, long finish, nice mouth feel. Should hold up for another 3-4 years, but try to drink before the end 2016.
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6/1/2014 - Rollerball wrote: 92 Points
Hard to deny how delicious!
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5/25/2014 - ctjared Likes this wine:
Not as fruity as I remember it, but very well balanced and opened up nicely after some air.
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3/23/2014 - Rollerball wrote: 92 Points
Balanced tent poles of sweet, fresh-squeezed liquor and bitter coffee notes. Juicy, interesting, and appealing, with typicity. Trying not to factor the hype and controversy around the producer and how out-of fashion the varietal and region have become.
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2/3/2014 - dogsbrekky wrote: 88 Points
I rated this an 88/100 on a value basis... straight 90/100 otherwise
There are SO MANY better Shiraz from my home area than this overhyped label..
Anyway, the 2004 was rated 96/100 by WS and 94/100 by Halliday..
I decanted this after letting the bottle sit upright for a few hours to let the sediment settle... actually not much settlement... I tasted and smelled after 1 hour... very closed... started drinking after 3 hours.. still very closed... better at hours 6 onwards but meh.... so disappointed
I wanted to add that this was quite disappointing... luckily I got the wine very cheap at about $44 but on some websites it is $89.
A medium bodied mix of blackberry, mocha, dark chocolate and licorice; weaker tannins; sweetness without dead fruit.... still an overtone of alcohol which my wife hated... great dark purple colour, weird bouquet after decanting until the air opened it up.... the finish was more raspberry than dark berry... my feelings may have been clouded my my missus' real dislike for this Shiraz
Meh...
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1/23/2014 - Rollerball wrote: 93 Points
Beautifully savory and getting better as it sheds some exuberance.
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1/1/2014 - sunalsorises wrote: 91 Points
Has aged nicely. Fruity with nice long finish without hotness. Pleasantly surprised by this Aussie wine.
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12/21/2013 - godx wrote: 82 Points
No formal notes. Very sweet with candied dark fruit. I thought previous bottles were quite decent a year ago but these two bottles were much sweeter and confected. Average.
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12/2/2013 - pape du neuf Does not like this wine: 85 Points
Over ripe fruit and artificial acidity cover what decent flavors are hidden.
Blackberry jam belongs on toast, not at dinner.
Second day, same as the first. The rest will have to go down the drain.
My (over)rating is based solely on the confidence that some people like syrup with alcohol substituted for the sugar.
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10/5/2013 - greekwineaux wrote: 93 Points
Old reliable-impressed everyone who tasted it.
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10/4/2013 - bobchase wrote: 85 Points
Drinking well now, may have another 12-18 mo. Deep cherry favors, but tannins balance the fruit nicely.
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9/15/2013 - ctjared wrote:
Consistent
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9/1/2013 - greekwineaux wrote: 93 Points
Getting down to the final bottles. Continues to impress, and still has structure to hang in there for several more years. Did not expect this to perform so well when I bought it years ago. None of it's other vintages that I've tried have come close to this. Great wine.
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8/17/2013 - ctjared wrote:
Excellent with lamb. Fruity, but not jammy. Drinking very well.
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8/4/2013 - TheWineDon wrote: 90 Points
Seems to be about done evolving. Still good fruit, but lacking a more refined finish indicative of the original high WS score. But, as with our own lives, maturation can blunt or slow further refinement.
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8/1/2013 - mxpbuy Likes this wine: 93 Points
Gave it a couple hour decant. Still going strong but not jammy like it once was. More "subtle" (if that is appropriate) overripe blueberry pie with more of pie nuances coming out. Hints of vanilla and Oak. 20+ second finish.
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5/27/2013 - Urodude wrote: 90 Points
Drinking well right now
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4/20/2013 - margolism Likes this wine: 92 Points
Very good, full-bodied Shiraz. This bottle better than last one. Not a 96 point wine, but a 90+ pointer. Great with big beef dishes.
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4/20/2013 - Jay Hack Likes this wine: 90 Points
Popped, decanted and poured after 15 minutes. Let's do this backwards. The finish is remarkably long. I can still taste it minutes after swallowing. Raspberry red fruit from start to finish. The nose is strong raspberry from the minute I started to decant. There was a bit of funky smell when the decant was over, but it blew off right away. It seems to be a composite cork, but a good seal and no evidence of problems. The mouth feel was a bit rough at first, especially at the back of the palate, but after 30-45 minutes, that smoothed out. The longer it sat in the glass, the stronger the fruit. Still has time to go. Not falling apart like everyone predicted for wines like this. Very enjoyable.
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3/31/2013 - thelostverse wrote: 92 Points
Similar notes as previous bottle. This is holding well.
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2/11/2013 - profiler54 wrote: 93 Points
Opaque dark purple color, pronounced nose of American oak, ripe berry fruit, garden herbs and more fruit. This is fruit bomb in the true sense. This wine refuses to be ignored. Medium acid, nice balance, full bodied, and finishes well. Definitely a Parker wine. This wine is ready to drink but could age. . Outstanding... Great value
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1/24/2013 - tbone wrote:
Decanted on night 1. Menthol and big fruit but initially over done. Paired pretty well with tri tip steaks but became too much after dinner.
Night 2 it had mellowed and lost the menthol but was still a bit too much. This needs another 5 years for my palate.
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1/21/2013 - lfbaum Likes this wine: 93 Points
Surprisingly elegant - the previous bottle which we drank 6 months prior was a bit flat. Not this one. Deep purple in color, solid fruit with pear and berry notes. Mild finish - not as big as when it was younger. Drink soon.
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12/31/2012 - margolism wrote: 91 Points
Heavy and jammy, as opposed to fine and elegant. Very flavorful and good, but not quite worth the WS96 rating. Probably best to drink sooner than later.
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12/31/2012 - Grape_ape wrote: 90 Points
has been a long time since I had an Australian Syrah... this was a welcome surprise. Dark fruit, a bit ripe but not at all over the top, peppery and savory, pretty well balanced.
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12/29/2012 - Limbus Lafayette Does not like this wine: 87 Points
Not as enjoyable as expected. The fruit was present, but the wine lacked a finish. Slightly thinner consistency than I expect from a nice Shiraz.
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12/3/2012 - TheWineDon wrote: 90 Points
Deep Purple color in the glass. Very enjoyable first glass, with a little heat but lots of fruit showing through. Second glass took on a mineral component and not as pleasant. Second night glasses returned to original flavors, still showing reasonably well.
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11/11/2012 - godx wrote: 89 Points
No formal notes. This type of wine isn't usually in my wheelhouse, but I was quite impressed with this for what it is. Darker fruits, chocolate, hints of oak. Smooth and rich on the palate with solid acidity. Didn't find it over the top or unbalanced. A great crowd pleaser. Drink or hold. Very good.
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10/25/2012 - mxpbuy wrote: 94 Points
Sampled 10/24/12. This overripe/candied blueberry monster still just pleases to no end. Smooth as silk but lots of subtle flavors behind all the massively dense fruit as well. Oak, vanilla, black cherry.
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10/3/2012 - 818wines wrote: 89 Points
Beautiful deep purple color. Oak and blueberry on the nose. A bit hot right off the bat, though that burnt off after a few minutes. The finish is pretty short, though still has some decent fruit throughout. Still a very nice wine, but definitely not improving at this point. Drink what you have sooner than later.
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7/5/2012 - mwagner7700 wrote:
Last of the case. Definitely lost some of the complexity from the initial few bottles, but still very good. Mostly oak, very sweet blueberry notes, and almost a hint of grape Kool-Aid. Still enjoyable, though... and the tannins have mellowed nicely. Again, this was a great deal... I remember trying to chase this one down when it first came out. A lot of nice memories with this wine. Sad to see this one go. Very Good
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6/27/2012 - Jmartin wrote:
Great wine. Aging well and still has time to go. A well balanced Aussie Shiraz, not an in your face fruit and alcohol bomb. K and I did wake up with headaches the next day.
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6/25/2012 - Napacablover wrote: 92 Points
Excellent bottle of Australian Shiraz! Very smoooth and easy to drink. I could drink this bottle every night of the week!
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5/13/2012 - cabwiz wrote: 89 Points
This wine was way better on release, glad it was my last bottle. Nose of Carmel, chocolate, coffee. Dark fruit up front but almost appeared over the hill on the back end. Improved back end on day two but still remember this being a lot better several years ago.
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4/27/2012 - Burgundy Al wrote: 89 Points
Aromas of dark plum, chocolate and dark roasted coffee. Similarly ripe, sweet black fruit on the palate. Still very fresh and vibrant, no fear of falling apart in the next few years. Worked well with spicy ribs tonight.
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4/18/2012 - gjv115 wrote: 92 Points
It was pretty good out of the gate. Fruity, rich, balanced. But it got better with a couple hours of air. Still has life left but if i had any left I would drink them.
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4/2/2012 - VTCellarDweller Likes this wine: 92 Points
The first of six held since release in our passive cellar. Decanted for 30 minutes leaving a moderate amount of sludgy sediment.
On first pour, fairly deep ruby color with just a faint hint of browning at the edge.
Very nice nuanced mature aromatics with subtle undertones of dark fruits.
I had braced myself for yet another clumsy Shiraz from down under; boy was in for a surprise. This wine was gorgeous. Medium full round feel in the mouth yet light on its feet. Very good balance, with mature layered flavors that were in total harmony. Long clean smooth finish without a trace of heat from the 14.5% ABV.
I'm not sure this will improve very much but it should provide a great deal of pleasurable drinking for the next 3-5 years. Irrespective of their recent bad PR, Schild got it right with this one. 92+
UPDATE: 12/31/2013
Decanted for 30 minutes and served with a hearty beef stew, this is still holding very well with no signs of decline.
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2/23/2012 - gjv115 wrote: 92 Points
Big dried fruit. It faded fast, though. Was definitely best immediately after opening. Same with the last bottle.
Time to drink it.
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2/19/2012 - krmcgrath wrote: 91 Points
Dark raspberry, blueberry and licorice nose. This opened right up with very little coaxing. Full bodied and plush but with enough acid and a hint of alcohol giving it spice and lift. Don't know where this will go from here but it was gorgeous two and a half years ago and still is now, even though it has definitely changed with time.
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2/18/2012 - lfbaum wrote: 92 Points
Much milder than when tasted previously. I'd say it's peaked. Lots of different notes including pencil and tobacco. Stood up to ribs, but probably wouldn't in another year.
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1/22/2012 - Rollerball wrote: 91 Points
A ripe, dark-berry fruit salad.
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1/19/2012 - BinVA wrote: 86 Points
Pruny, plummy, but not bad. Not going to get any better IMHO
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1/14/2012 - shereen wrote: 91 Points
Delicious full on Shiraz. Big blueberry nose and velvety on the palette. Balanced and just drinking wonderful right now. I assume the next year will be even better.
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1/5/2012 - guitarguy wrote: 83 Points
Shame on Schild for their recent shenanigans with current vintages of this wine. I wonder if they were bottling bulk wine back in '04 to capitalize on Harvey's 96 because this never came lose to 96 in my book. This bottle was not a good one, sour with Syrah skunk. Some violet fruit and a hint of RS. Good riddance Schild.
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12/31/2011 - guitarguy wrote: 91 Points
Probably the best I have had, grapey, blueberry nose with oak hints. Well integrated acid and enough tannins to make it interesting. Blueberry, oak, vanilla and chocolate flavors frame the acidity. One bottle less, I hope that Schild was not cheating this vintage. It falls apart after a couple of hours, so I would drink soon after opening and warming from cellar temps.
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12/26/2011 - fmarcoux wrote: 91 Points
Long balanced rich wine. Toes the line well with respect to over the top aussie shiraz.
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12/24/2011 - sedation (yellowgas) wrote: 91 Points
a very well balanced and mature shiraz. it was interesting that the wine maintain an evenness from first glass to the last. very enjoyable with dinner
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12/16/2011 - truckseller wrote: 95 Points
Perfect. Beautifully balanced, big fruit leading to a seamless finish. Can't wait to drink the other two bottles.
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11/27/2011 - vanpe003 wrote: 94 Points
In a really good place right now. Starting to develop a bit of secondary character. Smooth on the palate. Full without being overpowering. A nice bit of background acidity keeps this balanced. My only regret is that I've raced through 11 of 12 bottles, with only one remaining. I think this still has a lot more to show.
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11/24/2011 - Naso wrote: 90 Points
Drinking very nicely now
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11/16/2011 - guitarguy wrote: 90 Points
Actually working pretty well right now. Chocolate, berry nose. Chocolate, raspberry, prune flavors frame a decent acidity but nearly non-existent tannins. A decent bottle.
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10/30/2011 - profiler54 wrote: 92 Points
paque dark purple color, pronounced nose of American oak, ripe berry fruit, garden herbs and more fruit. This is fruit bomb in the true sense. This wine refuses to be ignored. Medium acid, nice balance, full bodied, and finishes well. Great value
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10/28/2011 - Jmartin wrote:
Did not drink well for some reason. Possibly a bad bottle? I don't think the wine should be heading down hill at this point.
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7/23/2011 - Paul Lin wrote: 90 Points
Exotic notes of plum jam, umeboshi, hoisin sauce, Chinese red bean paste, and toffee nut. Progressing nicely in its evolution, mellow and supple on the palate, with a plum-laced acidity. The alcohol does peak out a bit though, but overall a really enjoyable wine.
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7/15/2011 - BinVA wrote: 93 Points
Plum on the nose, but not in a funky or disjointed way. Very dark, smooth and enjoyable. Subtle sweetness that doesn't disappoint. Expected the plumminess to detract from the experience but it was quite good.
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6/3/2011 - coreywb Likes this wine: 95 Points
I had this wine 6 months ago and it was wonderful then. It is absolutely gorgeous now. Dark color, beautiful nose of berries and a just a touch of spice. What's left of tannins are soft. The improvement of this wine over time is a great testament to the hidden potential some wines possess. Might be the best $20 bottle I've ever bought. Recently bought the highly rated 2008 and just have to hope it's even close to as good as this.
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5/31/2011 - greekwineaux wrote: 93 Points
Continues to impress.
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5/22/2011 - Rollerball wrote: 92 Points
A rich dandilion fat nuanced deep herbal vanilla blueberry earth-dusted elixer. A big ripe back-of-your-mouth sweetness combined with an almost balancing mesquite.
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4/15/2011 - greekwineaux wrote: 93 Points
Old reliable. At this stage, there is no need to decant. Everyone loved both bottles. Excellent juice.
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2/25/2011 - le fouloir wrote: 85 Points
This is the fifth bottle of this wine that I have consumed over the last three or four years. It continues to fail to impress me. It is heavy on the fruit, but has little or no complexity to go along with the fruit. After becoming a member of Cellartracker last year, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the community average for this wine is close to 92, so I decided to try another bottle last week. I just don't see it. The wine has not evolved meaningfully since my first bottle and remains fairly pedestrian. I'll have to bring down the average a little.
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2/20/2011 - BinVA wrote: 88 Points
pruny
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2/10/2011 - yui wrote: 92 Points
balanced
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2/6/2011 - Bwizzle Likes this wine: 88 Points
The fruit forward nature of this is now well integrated and should be consumed in next 2-3 years before it gets 1 dimensional.
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2/3/2011 - Counselor Chris wrote: 90 Points
This has improved moderately since its youth. Still heavy in dark fruit and oak flavors, but settling down enough to have some decent balance and to be enjoyable in its style. Not a long ager, but I think it may still improve in the next couple of years.
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1/27/2011 - signotim wrote: 82 Points
drank next to 04 Kilikanoon Covenant on its second day. much stronger oak influence on the Schild, both on the nose and the palate. need to wait a day on the Schild to see if oak blows off...
second day and this has come more into balance, oak has calmed down some... but still nothing to get excited about. previous bottles showed much better.
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12/24/2010 - DesMarteau wrote: 90 Points
port-like. Blueberries, tar, and cough syrup. Did not let breath and just drank it. Lots of time needed on my last 3.
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12/16/2010 - coreywb Likes this wine: 94 Points
I had a bottle of this in 2008 and it was still too big to consume unless hours of decanting. Just opened another bottle (2010) to have with grilled steak and it was off the charts good. Now far more elegant, softer tannins and a long beautiful finish. Spicy notes with significant fruit makes it a great accompaniment for grilled steaks, rack of lamb, ribs etc. Wow!
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12/9/2010 - guitarguy wrote: 90 Points
A better bottle tonight and this wine never hit the Overrater HS's mid-90's. Makes me wonder about the recent Top 100 rating for current vintage. This bottle had a nose of blackberry, vanilla and sweet phenols. It remains a BIG wine from a time when Down Under was missing high on Shiraz, IMHO. Chewy tannins, big, blackberry flavors with hints of oak and vanilla in the finish. Tangy peppery finish. In retrospect, huge, sweet, overripe wines were probably a trend that would have been better off not followed. I seek more balance today and Aussieland will need to get with the program if they expect to recover from the devastating losses in US sales in recent years.
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12/2/2010 - Patches wrote: 92 Points
Okay, 1.5 years ago I thought this wine had peaked, but this was the best bottle yet. Flavors of cherry, blackberry, coffee, and oak. Still rich, with excellent structure, but everything us now so well integrated. Wish this wasn't the last bottle.
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11/17/2010 - John McCabe wrote: 92 Points
Nice concentration. The last glass was particulary well balanced and decadent, but upon opening and for the first couple of hours, this was a bit one-dimensional. Seems like bottle variation because the previous bottle I had was amazing.
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10/24/2010 - lfbaum wrote: 94 Points
Steve Romaine on his boat
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10/18/2010 - John McCabe wrote: 95 Points
I couildn't believe how good this was. I've had this wine a few times before and found it a bit uninspiring. I think the extra year or two made a huge difference. Very complex, racey flavors. Almost sweet. I'm starting to see why Parker rates these Aussie Shiraz so highly; I think they just need that much extra time to show what they have.
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9/25/2010 - herberto wrote: 88 Points
Big rich chocolaty Oz Shiraz. Not bad. Not grossly overoaked like some.
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9/14/2010 - greekwineaux wrote: 94 Points
Continues to be my pnp war horse. Have gone through 6 cases of this great juice, and still have 3 cases left, which I will spread out over time. 3-5 years seems like a safe bet as far as a window for aging is concerned.
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9/13/2010 - michelvl wrote: 94 Points
Consistent with my previous reviews.
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8/26/2010 - mxpbuy wrote: 95 Points
Sampled 7/30/10. This wine keeps impressing me. Loaded with overripe blueberries there is much more to this wine as it unfolds. 4 hours decanting. Black cherries, tar, some dried brown herb, smokey Oak, minerals and a rich finish that lasts 40 seconds.
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8/16/2010 - 3daywinereview.com wrote: 93 Points
Minneapolis Wine Club Aussie Shiraz (My House): 2nd time trying this wine and it showed really well again. Blackberries, cherry, coffee grounds, pepper and spice. Still firm tannins and I see this wine aging well and expect this to drink through 2020.
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8/15/2010 - rocknroller wrote: 93 Points
Aussie Shiraz Wines at John's (John's): Color was dark purple, i thought a little lighter on the edges, but most didn't agree. The nose is more old world with earth, leather, hints of tobacco, coffee predominating. Very little fruit was showing through. The palate was medium bodied with good tannins and a medium finsih. I don't see how this wine could be referred to as a fruit bomb in any way. If so, there is major bottle variation.
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7/30/2010 - mwagner7700 wrote:
Definitely a notch below what this wine used to be. None of that upfront fruit. More subdued with leather and tobacco notes coming through. Still nuances of oak. I miss the fruit here. I don't get the WS drinking window on this. Already on the down slide if you ask me. Very Good
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7/13/2010 - guitarguy wrote: 88 Points
Solid if less than spectacular, probably heading downhill. Does not seem to have the fruit and balance of mid-top end Shiraz (Octavius, Rockford Basket, E&E Black Pepper, etc.) but it would be silly to assume a $25 wine can compete with these or Grange, Hill of Grace or the other super-prems. Still, for the money, it remains a decent mouthful but one that is declining. Smoke and cherry on the nose, hints of animal, grapey berry and black pepper on the palate. Maybe a bit of brett peeking through, which is definitely a flaw but to be expected in these high alcohol, RS, low acid monsters. Should have been consumed on release, it is not aging all that gracefully. Drink within 1 year.
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7/6/2010 - mxpbuy wrote: 94 Points
Sampled 7/4/10. This wine takes about an hour to open up. The blueberries are rich and fat and dominate once the wine is open. Still, there is plenty going here to really enjoy. Some dried herbs, vanilla Oak, a long smooth finish. A very well made wine that hides its alcohol wonderfully. No rush to finish this wine off. It'll be go for another half dozen+ years with ease.
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7/4/2010 - wine4ever wrote: 92 Points
Pretty darn good. Wasn't sure it would, but it went really well with chili, hotdogs, and fireworks. This wine is in a great place. Very easy drinking, good fruit, some smokiness, nice weight, good acidity, nice finish. Nothing mind boggling, but extremely pleasant.
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6/21/2010 - Vino Me wrote: 92 Points
Last bottle. Just as good as the last one with consistent notes. Well rounded and balanced. 92 points.
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6/3/2010 - guitarguy wrote: 90 Points
In a good place right now. Drink up. Nose of blueberry which carries onto the palate. Tangy, peppery, hint of wet dog which detracts a bit. Finishes pretty long. Again, in a good place and ready to go. Tannins are quite moderated.
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5/27/2010 - michelvl wrote: 93 Points
Consistent with my previous notes but somehow it seems that every bottle is subtly different. Interesting dynamic.
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5/7/2010 - mwagner7700 wrote:
Well now this was interesting... this was nothing like my first 4 bottles. Everything seemed "muted", and there were none of the mouthwater flavors that I experienced with the first 4. Tart notes of blueberry, strawberry and cherry. Maybe a hint of herbs. I have loved previous bottles, but I was not a fan of this bottle. THIS BOTTLE: Good
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4/12/2010 - sgamiz wrote: 93 Points
The last of my bottles, but I am sad as the first boittles I did not like - the last one is just getting better and better. It is a crime to drink it young.
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4/2/2010 - profiler54 wrote: 91 Points
Opaque dark purple color, pronounced nose of American oak, ripe berry fruit, garden herbs and more fruit. This is fruit bomb in the true sense. This wine refuses to be ignored. Medium acid, nice balance, full bodied, and finishes well. Great value
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4/1/2010 - sossher Likes this wine: 92 Points
Decanted for 30 minutes. Was excited to try this again. I really enjoyed the last bottle I had about 18 months ago, and once again this bottle did not disappoint. The aromas seemed to be bursting out of this wine when I opened and decanted. Color was opaque and inky. Full flavored and very enjoyable.
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3/7/2010 - michelvl wrote: 94 Points
Consistent with my previous note.
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3/4/2010 - wineracquet wrote: 91 Points
This wine tastes different each time I try it. Last bottle too sweet.This one had more depth and was not like a dessert wine. Nice slightly spicy flavors with good complexity. Wonder what next bottle will bring?
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3/3/2010 - treaganjr wrote: 91 Points
Big mouthfilling Australian syrah. Ripe cherry fruit with lots of spice. Enjoyed by everyone.
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2/6/2010 - greekwineaux wrote: 93 Points
Last night, this wine made all of the Pros & Joes happy.
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2/5/2010 - tplskylrk wrote: 89 Points
Dusty red. Rustic fruit on the nose, graphite, charchol. Dark red fruits. Cranberries, ripe pie cherries on the palate. Front & mid palate is a pleasure, not deep. Drinking great right now.
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1/13/2010 - michelvl wrote: 94 Points
Wonderful integrated nose and balanced palate. Very rich taste explosion with a fruit forward character. Amazing PQR. Drinking perfect now peak in 2-3 years; 30 min decanting. Good for another 6 years at least.
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12/13/2009 - greekwineaux wrote: 94 Points
WOTN.
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12/7/2009 - tplskylrk wrote: 86 Points
Bottles have been troubled with inconsitent notes, so I will score this as opposed to FLAW'n it. Fruit & acid again out of wack on this which has toubled a few bottles from about 8. See other TN's for the Good Ones.... Just seems dry and acidic, fruit dead. GuitarGuy says it, maybe these were just better young....
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11/30/2009 - yui wrote: 88 Points
lacking somethi ng
OK
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11/18/2009 - witkinddavis wrote: 91 Points
A big boy , strong and rich
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10/29/2009 - wineracquet wrote: 90 Points
Tried this about 9 months ago and was disappointed. Wine seemed closed at that point.This bottle was quite vibrant and sweet. Really not my usual syle, but the cascade of blueberry fruit was so focused and pure, I enjoyed it despite it being a fruit bomb. I can see those who like the syle rating this very high, because even though I prefer dry reds, this was quite impressive!
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10/26/2009 - Rich S wrote: 92 Points
Dark purple color. Upon opening you are blasted with a huge fruit bomb nose of extracted, jammy blackberry and blueberry reduction with creme de cassis added in for good measure. Really spectacular nose. After decanting for around 2 hours, the nose mellowed out a bit but still plenty of black and blue fruit jam with almost a port like aroma. More fruit on the palate along with some toasted oak, vanilla and cassis. Lush mouthfeel along with nicely integrated tannins and a smooth finish. Really nice Aussie shiraz.
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10/22/2009 - greekwineaux wrote: 93 Points
See previous notes. Had this bottle to myself after having dealt with my oldest son questioning my fairness when allocating responsibilities between him and his brother. Why are teens on a mission to age their parents faster than mother nature intended? Is there some way we can enlighten them so they know when they are insulting us? After that realization, a quick hug, an apology, and an I love you dad later, and he is on his merry way, while I'm reaching for a bottle of liquid therapy. Believe it or not, I am very blessed, with the both of them. As for this wonderful vino, it continues to maintain it's wonderful qualities. I don't think this will go as long as the drinking window states, but it's good for 3-5 years at the least, which is more than I need to finish what I have left. Yamas! 93+
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10/21/2009 - guitarguy wrote: 88 Points
Took some time to open up, this wine never has hit Harvey the Overrater's high number. Still a good wine, maybe a decent value around $25 (could be better). Nose of blueberry, doug fir, earth, bit of VA. Blueberry, very moderate tannin, good acidity. Jiust not complex. Perhaps this would have been better consumed in '06-08.
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10/18/2009 - Grape_ape wrote: 89 Points
Served to company and only got a small glass. However limited impression was that this was nowhere near a 96 point wine. Very ripe, raisiny, almost port-like characteristics. I think guitarguy's notes are on point.
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10/10/2009 - herberto wrote: 89 Points
This is a pleasant, super-rich creamy-vanilla confection. More of a dessert than a wine. Simple, though, and a one-trick pony.
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10/7/2009 - vanpe003 wrote: 94 Points
I opened this because I was concerned about its progression, given the trajectory that seemed to be playing out with my earlier bottles as well as some recent reviews by others here. At least for this bottle, those worries were misplaced.
On the nose, strong aromatic cherry, pipe tobacco and just a slight hint of tar in the background. All of that carries to the palate, which on this bottle is very thick and remains quite forward and primary. Nicely balanced with little in the way of acidity. Some fine tannins on a medium long finish.
Bottles like this one are several years from hitting peak, but I am wondering about bottle variation given my earlier experiences and those of others below. Update: as this airs out a bit, it gets even better...thicker and more complex. Worth another point to me at this point (95). Absoultely great bottle of wine....better and more complex than some of the Amon Ra I've had. Marries well with chipolte seasoning on the Mexican-themed dinner tonight. A vastly different experience from the '94 Penfolds Grange last week (the Grange being more elegant, refined, etc), but not necessarily a lesser experience in terms of hedonistic pleasure.
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10/6/2009 - guitarguy wrote: 86 Points
Oakey, phenolic nose, this is a bit of a wounded duck at this point. I think it was better in its youth. Now we get maturing cherry and prune flavors, a bit of oak and just kind of a muted experience. Perhaps it will recover with a bit more age, but it is also possible this was built for early consumption. It was, thankfully, an unusual Aussie, in that even though it was in the kiss of death price point ($10-50), it was never a sick, low acid, overextracted, fruit bomb monster. Not shy, but balanced, and that was a good thing. Unfortunately, I think its best days may be behind it. Drink before 2011.
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9/30/2009 - jswanson wrote: 94 Points
Wine is drinking very well now...has matured from a big Aussie fruit bomb to a elegant earthy mature wine. Wonderful earth and cheese on the nose with a subtle black berry and mineral (iron) on the palate. I didn't think this wine would get any better from a couple of years ago, but it has evolved nicely. Can't wait to try the next bottle in year or so.
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9/25/2009 - krmcgrath wrote: 91 Points
Dark fruits, licorice, game, smoke and cedar. Beautiful depth and texture. A medium long finish with a little spice and alcohol lingering with the fruit. Very enjoyable
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9/12/2009 - profiler54 wrote: 92 Points
Predominately fruit of boysenberry and blackberries with a dose of toasty American oak... nice quality, text book Aussi shiraz.. had there been more complexity and finish I would have rated more highly
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9/7/2009 - Jay Hack wrote: 90 Points
I previously rated this wine higher and I do not think it is getting worse, but my comparison points this time were better wines and it suffered by comparison. Popped and poured. Very dark in color. Strong cherry fruit flavor with pepper and some blueberry. A bit monolithic compared to the grenache/syrah wines I had after it but still very enjoyable. The mouth feel is nice but there is an end of palate bite that gives a spicy feel to it.
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8/4/2009 - ljl203 wrote: 91 Points
Solid core of sweet fruit, tannins and acids all in balance. Much better after 1 day in the fridge. Would decant for several hours next time.
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7/30/2009 - guitarguy wrote: 85 Points
Dry and dull night one, opened up after 24 hours to reveal sour cherry, mild tannin and charcoal in the nose. Just okay, maybe and off bottle or perhaps this is past peak? I do think this requires a heavy decant if for no other reason than it is throwing a huge sediement but also to force it to open up and reveal that hidden fruit. No brett or instability noted, thankfully.
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7/26/2009 - orcharddude22 wrote: 93 Points
Very nice and better than the last bottle. Brown sugar, dark fruit and anise dominate. This bottle was tasted by the crowd and drank so fast it literally disappeared.
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7/24/2009 - stocksandbondage wrote: 91 Points
Very solid wine. Ripe and Jammy with blackberry, cherry and blueberry supported by velvety tannins and enough acidity to keep everything in balance. Plenty of blackpepper and mocha to add complexity. Well integrated toasted oak.
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7/10/2009 - Zweder wrote: 90 Points
Very primary bouquet with a lot of very ripe cherries. On the palate some chocolate, sweetness, soft bitterness and ripe cherries. Good acidity. Well balanced wine.
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6/28/2009 - Justin B wrote: 94 Points
Great smooth nose that reminds me of vanilla bean ice cream with raspberries on top. Very well balanced with a super long finish. Caramel, light chocolate, non-tart cherries. Drinks very well. Very impressed!
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6/16/2009 - ScottS wrote: 82 Points
I wanted something slutty so I reached reached for this bottle. Upon opening a good dose of brett on the nose. This wine is thick & clumsy with a dirty fruit characteristic and a ton of oak. WTF happened to this wine. As it ages it gets worse & worse.....
50+5+10+13+4=82-
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6/13/2009 - WineTrooper wrote: 95 Points
Better than ever. The last bottle I had seemed closed down but now I think it was a bottle variation. The wine is just so intense but without going over the line, even after several hours in a decanter it still goes on and on. The brown sugar flavors I used to notice have morphed into chocolate, heavy carmel, and deep fruit flavors with a 45 second vanilla finish. Best QPR ever for me.
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5/30/2009 - Medo wrote: 94 Points
This is a Rockstar! After 2 hours in the decanter the 2004 Schild Shiraz offeres everything I'm looking for in an outstanding Barossa Shiraz: Great dark fruits (mostly ripe black cherries and plums), peppery spices, licorice and well integrated oak. I'm glad to have one bottle left, and for the price of 20€ this was a real steal!
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5/11/2009 - dannyk8232 wrote: 93 Points
Awesome after about 2 hours in the decanter. Rich plum and chocolate flavors with a smooth mouthfeel.
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5/10/2009 - vanpe003 wrote: 89 Points
This bottle is a pretty significant falloff from prior outings. Not as rich or lush. The fruit has diminished quite a bit. A lot of menthol / eucalyptus, noticeable acidity. Perhaps a bad bottle, but no noticeable flaw (e.g. no TCA smell).
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4/4/2009 - KeithAkers wrote: 90 Points
Final Four Blind Knockout (matt's house, highland park IL): nose: very dark nose filled with berry tones, black cherries and dark red fruits. A bit of jammyness to it that isn't over the top, but its definitely a very ripe nose
taste: good smooth medium feel with medium depth and ripe, but balanced tones of dark berries, currants, black cherries and a good helping of dark red fruits
overall: an excellent wine, but isn't very expressive nor does it really kick into another gear. Good aromas and flavors with nice depth
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3/27/2009 - Patches wrote: 92 Points
Very ripe aromas of blackberries, cherries, and bramble fruit on the nose. Lots of coffee, smoke and vanilla with some tar. This wine is big and bold with a lot of body. The flavors resemble a cherry liquor with dark fruit, oaky vanilla, ground coffee and some sweetness. Some acid and good tannin, but also lots of alcohol. The heat shows its self on the finish. I would probably not cellar this one. Drinking really well now.
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3/15/2009 - GZ3 wrote: 88 Points
medium bodied, black fruit. shorter finish. did not decant.
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3/14/2009 - Wrighty wrote: 92 Points
More fruit and chocolate than the previous bottle. Still drinking well and starting to show a little age.
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3/14/2009 - 97edwardc wrote: 90 Points
I like this wine - but I don't love it.
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3/13/2009 - JohnnyBark wrote: 94 Points
This wine had all the massive nose and arromatics you would want to find in my opinion. It had a Parker Nose with a Spectator palate. The palate was less impressive than the nose, but it came out silky and lots of fruit. For the price, I wish every Shiraz was this pleasing. I wouldn't think twice about opening my other bottle in the near future.
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3/1/2009 - guitarguy wrote: 91 Points
Tasting great now, good pruney fruit, maybe a tad hot and overripe but not objectionably so. Good value.
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3/1/2009 - wirelesswine wrote: 91 Points
Big fruit but well balanced and tasty.
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2/22/2009 - Mattshank wrote: 92 Points
Aussie Shiraz Tasting at Edina C.C.: Nose: Massive blackberry attack with some tar and mint. After aeration the tar went away and nuances of lavender and bell pepper appeared. Palate: Blackberry with spicy black licorice and a clean medium length finish. Close 2nd for WOTN (along with the Greenock Creek Alice's Shiraz), but my WOTN for value at aprox $30/bottle (a steal).
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2/22/2009 - ljl203 wrote: 90 Points
Tasty core of sweet fruit that is laced with lime acid and a chocolate espresso note. Great mid-palette, quick finish.
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1/30/2009 - AdamWallstein wrote: 91 Points
Very Solid, enjoyable, delicious. Dark, blue-violent color, with emerging aromas of blue fruits and vanilla. No component was ever out of balance, or lacking as this went down extremely smoothly. Not particularly interesting, however; perhaps subtlety is yet to emerge...
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1/29/2009 - tplskylrk wrote: 91 Points
Dark in the glass, thick. Smoky black & blue fruits on the nose. Liquid blueberries and other black fruits with glycerin across the palate, coats the mouth. Some of the fruit seems as others have noted, has a burnt aspect to the palate. Not quite tar, nor a espresso roast being done Italian style, just burnt, in a kinda good way. Will be interesting to see how that aspect develops over the years. Solid finish, lingering, not a real deep finish, and not a very complex wine. A solid effort with great fruit, impressive.
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1/19/2009 - cadamson wrote: 86 Points
First night this was entirely unforgiving. Almost tasted and smelled like a cup of coffee with vanilla cream. Started to open up late in the night to at least get some dark fruit on the palate. Second day, this was much better. I still find the nose pretty closed, with a bit of black olive, coffee and dark fruits. On the palate, there is a nice blast of dark red and black fruits, some cocoa and just maybe some pepper. A big, dark wine, though the weight is not huge or syrupy. Not completely my style, but nice on day 2 for $29. Not sure there is enough fruit to last too many years, especially in relation to the non-fruit aspects. I would suggest drinking in the next few years with a decent decant.
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1/10/2009 - Wrighty wrote: 92 Points
Nose has summer fruit pudding with vanilla cream, there's also some blackberry after topping up the glass. Palate is a little less giving; burnt fudge, tar. Finish starts sweet then continues with a slight burnt/toastiness which is fairly long.
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12/25/2008 - shakedown wrote: 89 Points
Got better as the night progressed and unfortunately this wine did not get the proper wine glass it deserved. It actually lacked the fruit a normal aussie shiraz normally has and I tasted mostly the oak.
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12/20/2008 - pkbackman wrote: 88 Points
Still great, but this time it seemed a little too over the top fruity.
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12/7/2008 - gportilla wrote:
Comparison with 2004 Langmeil and Kessler The Bogan. On opening taste it was number one with rich spicy red fruit and long finish. After three hours it dropped to last as the others picked up and it seemed the finish dropped off on this one
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12/1/2008 - WineTrooper wrote: 92 Points
As intense as usual, but this time there was a lot of heavy eucalyptus and alcohol. The bouquet of brown sugar/vanilla was there as usual but those flavors were more muted and the berry and pepper shone through. This could have been because of a three hour decant.
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11/25/2008 - tplskylrk wrote: 91 Points
Several of these over the last 18 months with some bottle inconsistency.
Dark in the glass, sweet black/blue nose wafting from the glass & on the nose. nice purple color & legs. Sharp fruit attack, smooth mid palate then deep long finish, lingering with sweet fruit. Some bottles had a bit of tar & pencil for me as well with a bit of that overextracted thing, bit too much acid on a few that said variation in a bad way, those were more along the lines of 89 pts.
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11/24/2008 - winefool wrote: 92 Points
Wineflock - Recent Acquisitions (Caro Mio): Big bright violet floral black fruit nose with a touch of heat. Big jammy black fruit with violet notes. Super ripe and sweet.
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11/24/2008 - Nanda wrote: 93 Points
Flock - Recent Acquisitions (Chicago, IL): Huge nose boasting aromas of toasty black fruit, olives, mineral, brown sugar and spice. Round, delicious and toasty on the palate. For those that like the ripe and rich -- this is excellent, high quality Shiraz.
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11/24/2008 - salil wrote: 90 Points
Huge nose of black fruits, tar, spices, vanilla and a little alcohol. Much more enjoyable and complex in the mouth though with flavours of blueberries and plums infused with smoke, tar, earth and faint meaty notes, a plush texture and chewy tannins at the back. Finishes long but with a little warmth.
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11/8/2008 - alliesteve wrote: 92 Points
Aging nicely. Not as strong on the dark berry nose as previously which is a sign that it is balancing out nicely. An excellent wine that I am happy to have more of in the cellar.
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11/6/2008 - guitarguy wrote: 84 Points
An example of old overrater Harvey's false exuberance, I do not ever see this reaching the 96 point level. This particular bottle seemed weak and off, very disjointed. Nose of ripe raspberry and smoke, I also detected a hint of peaty smoke (like Lagiviulin) and blueberry but a ton of heat and acidity that really soured this experience. Tore the enamel off my teeth. Not very good, let's hope my other 13 are a lot better.
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11/6/2008 - jdb123 wrote: 88 Points
Not really ready yet, but I gave it a try anyway. Wonderful, rich berries, but needs some age. Wouldn't recommend opening yet.
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11/6/2008 - tskrueger wrote:
Good...No tasting notes as this one was popped way to late in the evening!
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10/15/2008 - ikkaariainen wrote: 92 Points
Very very good high end shiraz from one of Australia's premier producers. Enjoyed with good friend neighborbill and other friends after dinner with pool. Second bottle I have had from this producer, first '04I've had, very good, very smooth, highly recommend this and expect it will continue to improve under cellaring conditions for at least 5-10 years to come. Almost inky black, very smooth, good mouth feel and very pleasant long lingering aftertaste. Nose fruity, floral and somewhat muted with dark stone fruit and dark cherry present. Primary flavors included eucalyptus, vanilla, tar, leather, some smoke on the aftertaste.
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10/11/2008 - pkbackman wrote: 90 Points
Consistent
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9/14/2008 - curtispomeroy wrote: 91 Points
Wonderful wine. Drank over four nights and it didn't fade a bit.
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9/10/2008 - budman wrote: 93 Points
Very nice black fruits. Long finish.
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9/10/2008 - N2Vin wrote: 93 Points
Nose of sweet buttery scented raspberry crossiants, a confectioniers delight. Lots of ripe berry, sassy spices and italian cold cuts. Ripe plum, blueberry and strawberry liqueur. Thick, unctous, but not over the top at all. moderate finish of plum flavor.
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9/5/2008 - pkbackman wrote: 90 Points
WOW. A raspberry/blueberry chocolate milkshake. Without being syrupy. Gripping tannins on the finish. Wow
A perfect finishing wine.
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8/18/2008 - parathesis wrote: 91 Points
Still a great bottle and a great QPR.
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8/10/2008 - dougie wrote: 91 Points
good stuff. great qpr. don't know if age really has helped much though- smoother, but lost a bit of the flavor also.
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8/10/2008 - DesMarteau wrote: 95 Points
Wow...this is a great wine. Harmoneous...deep fruit that is in check. Nice concetration that is wonderfully integrated. Deep grape, kiwi, supple tannins. Love it.
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8/5/2008 - pizzler wrote: 89 Points
This was an odd bottle. I popped the cork about an hour before we started tasting it next to a 2004 Mitolo GAM. The nose was a little muted, but still classic Shiraz. The initial taste was odd...not necessarily bad...but like a manufactured taste rather than a natural taste. Faux Shiraz. It was too smooth, too muted, too....everything. I took an instant dislike to it, not unlike overoaked Cabs or Chards that went overboard on the malolactic fermentation process. I tried it again at the end of the evening and it was turning into pretty darned good wine. Dark fruit, caramel, vanilla flavors...plenty of structure to last a few years. I would want to try this wine again and see if it has evolved or is truly a manufactured bottle of wine.
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6/23/2008 - tthorn wrote: 92 Points
This is a huge wine. Still pretty tannic, but approaching integration. Oak is refined and pleasant. The finish goes on forever.
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6/15/2008 - ljl203 wrote: 92 Points
Opened my first bottle for Father's Day. It did not disappoint. Deep purple color. It just offers so much and is so well integrated. A creamy strawberry fruit flavor, slight mint and smoke, honey and spices, vanilla all singing together with nice acids. A long berry stained finish. It is the kind of wine you just want one more sip of after the previous one fades away.
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6/3/2008 - wine4ever wrote: 93 Points
Well balanced, full bodied, rich, layers of flavors, and a long finish. Not over the top by any means - an outstanding wine.
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6/2/2008 - gregsp wrote: 93 Points
Very nice. Drinking really well - in fact, I liked this better than previous bottles. This evening it showed more structure, and I think it will be even better with another year or two of cellaring.
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5/22/2008 - greekwineaux wrote: 93 Points
Followed a bottle of Into The Dark by SQN, which was brought unexpectedly to my home by Dave, to celebrate an important event. It was a total of 2 hours plus before we sampled this wine, and while it wasn't in the same league with the SQN red, it was it's usual rock solid self.
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5/14/2008 - CaliCab wrote: 92 Points
I enjoyed this despite myself. After months of knocking the Aussie fruit bomb, this one was surprisingly solid. Well integrated, smokey oak, great body, fruit-forward but not syrupy-sweet, the fruit was well maintained within the overall structure of the wine. Made me reevaluate my unqualified rejection of all Barossa/McLaren Aussie bombs.
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5/13/2008 - ScottS wrote: 84 Points
Day 1 - Amber red in color. On the nose cedar and alcohol. Full bodied & tight with a ton of oak and a hint of red fruit. Rather dry and tannic finish. It's been a while since I've tried this wine and this bottle is rather unimpressive. I'll gas and put in the fridge & try tomorrow. rating reserved
Day 2 - Poured and let it sit in the glass to let it come up to proper temp. Oak, oak and more oak. As the wine warmed the alcohol became more prevalent. Could it be bottle variation? I remember tasting this wine about 18 mos ago & was blown away.
50+5+11+14+4=84
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5/2/2008 - Winemob wrote: 92 Points
Big, bold Aussie bomb. What I wanted and expected from the Boxer, this wine delivers. Nose of chocholate and vanilla, tastes of smooth and silky berries with integrated smokey oak. Decanted and filtered, good wine, but not 96 points in my opinion.
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5/2/2008 - budman wrote: 91 Points
Not as good as the previous bottles. This may be shutting down.
All the ingredients were there, but somewhat muted.
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4/22/2008 - greekwineaux wrote: 94 Points
A lovely drinking experience, at an affordable price.
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4/14/2008 - greekwineaux wrote: 93 Points
How can you go wrong with this wine? Served it at my wife's cousin's bridal shower. Incredible QPR. I have gone through 3 cases of this, and am looking forward to finishing off the remaining 6 as the flavors meld over time. This wine has a long life ahead of it, and will just keep getting better.
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3/20/2008 - bajayngo wrote: 90 Points
drank with my brother along side the robert mondavi reserve. And I thought it stood up very well. But blueberry, smokey, anise. Great balance with a big finish.
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3/20/2008 - dougie wrote: 90 Points
Less syrupy than before. Getting more integrated.
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2/26/2008 - Vino Me wrote: 92 Points
I opened one of my bottles of this over the weekend with family. My first try of this WS96 pointer. A round and voluptuous wine. Deep red color with notes of roasted coffee beans and plum. Not overly extracted and a very well made wine. Full bodied with moderate tannins. 92 points.
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2/12/2008 - chateaumiller wrote: 89 Points
EXCELLENT
EtOH 14.5%
I say this is excellent because it is well made and the tannins are still integrated well but this is a HUGE fruit bomb, fruit mine, fruit missile, fruit charge...and on and on.
The nose is all blue fruit with a medicinal smell that blows off quickly.
The palate is so fruit forward that you're almost done after 3oz. The palate is ripe blueberry and cherry jam with a nice grip.There is also a nice integration of vanilla. (Oak) Little bit of a chocolate finish underneath with the fruit lasting 10+ seconds. New world Aussie lovers will continue to get joy for the next couple of years.
There's plenty of sediment on the pour so filter decant.
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1/30/2008 - Marc S wrote: 85 Points
Good bottle of everyday drinking wine. Lots of fruit. Silky and loaded with fruit.
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1/26/2008 - pkbackman wrote: 89 Points
EXCELLENT
Loaded with fruit. Cherries and raspberries. But not over the top at all. Very smooth.
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1/20/2008 - DesMarteau wrote: 94 Points
Wow...great fruit, integration, not over the top like too many aussies
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1/19/2008 - smenzies wrote: 88 Points
unbalanced palate..nowhere near the standard of the reserve..somewhat disappointing
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1/16/2008 - Paul Lin wrote: 93 Points
Aussie Wines Offline (Canyon Lodge American Grill - Laguna, CA): Harvey Steiman is the man! He called this wine and even though I would not go so far as to give it 96 points, it is nonetheless an outstanding shiraz -- and for $25 quite a steal! Sumptuous notes of brown sugar, toffee nut, dark chocolate, and plum jam. Wonderfully rich and full on the palate. 93-94 points.
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1/12/2008 - yui wrote: 91 Points
notes from mem: very dark fruit on the nose. Nice balance and full bodied. Not OTT like all the other Aussie SHiraz'a I've had. Structurd, creamy finish.
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1/11/2008 - gr8r84u wrote: 95 Points
Loads of vanilla and delicious ripe berry fruit in this one in the glass and on the nose. Can't really think of anything negative to say about it. It was a favorite at our weekly wine geeks dinner. I'm sure Mark's Bordeaux that tasted like sweat socks and "smelled like a fat lady" helped this one shine but I think it would have anyway. Not sure how this can get any better but I'll save the last bottle for something special.
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12/15/2007 - WineTrooper wrote: 94 Points
Everyone loved it. I bit sweet and hot this time, though...needed to decant but didn't have a decanter.
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12/10/2007 - Berno wrote: 94 Points
Popped and poured. Extremely dark and vibrant purple color. One of most beautiful wine's I've seen. Nose of ripe blueberries, cinnamon and vanilla. Ripe fruit in the mouth, full bodied, smooth, fine tannins, great balance. Good wine, it wold benefit from another year or two a bottle age.
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12/6/2007 - orcharddude22 wrote: 90 Points
Same descriptors as previous bottles, however a bit alcoholic. Nice fruit and molasses flavors.
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12/2/2007 - mskrueger wrote: 93 Points
Wonderful rich wine. Drinking very smooth with a hint of vanilla with a little pepper. Not real strong in any area. Drank with a few friends after the Rotary Tour of Homes and everyone enjoyed this wine.
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12/1/2007 - dannyk8232 wrote: 95 Points
Fabulous. Still needs air. Beginning to develop some interesting depth and spiciness.
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11/29/2007 - Jay Hack wrote: 92 Points
This is my third bottle. It is mellowing just a bit. Still lots of red and blue fruits. No long teeth staining intensity. Smooth drinking and very well balanced. Some vanilla in the background, not a lot of spice, but some pepper begining to poke its nose through the fruit forward assault (in a nice way) on your palate. There was also noticeable coffee, which I had not gotten in the prior bottles. I was at Morton's and kept looking around to see if someone was drinking coffee, but I was in the bar room and I didn't see anyone with a cup. Everyone I drink this with who is not a "wineaux" loves it.
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11/18/2007 - dd wrote:
excellent wine
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11/10/2007 - Claudio161 wrote: 92 Points
Bottle was better than previously - First one about 1 year ago was disappointing - but wish that I hung onto more. Fruit forwards, peppery, nice dark garnet color. Very enjoyable and a decent length on the finish.
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11/5/2007 - cadamson wrote: 92 Points
Better than the last time. Excellent fruit (red and black), pepper, good structure. Yummy.
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10/25/2007 - dougie wrote: 91 Points
Got better throughout the evening. A bit to heavy at the beginning, but excellent QPR.
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10/22/2007 - parathesis wrote: 91 Points
Great QPR
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10/15/2007 - vanpe003 wrote: 94 Points
No dtl'd notes. Ran neck and neck with the 2002 Beringer Private Reserve for WOTN Saturday @ Jeff's annual ER outing. Very rich and long. The btl didn't last long enough to determine whether a 2nd day falloff would occur, as happened with a prior btl.
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10/12/2007 - msu wrote: 95 Points
Just delicious. Loads of fruit, blackberry, plum, sweet spices. The finish goes on and on. This will be incredible in another couple of years. I need more.
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10/1/2007 - rjonwine@gmail.com wrote: 88 Points
2004 Pax Syrah vs. Aussie Shiraz Blindtasting (Rich and Peggy's Home in Los Altos, CA): Group's #4 (my #6) – 32 pts.; 0, 1, 2, 1 – Dark red violet color with cherry meniscus; charcoal, smoke and liquid pepper nose; concentrated chocolate, black fruit, lavender Necco wafer, lacks acidity; medium finish (14.5% alcohol)
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9/26/2007 - terroir wrote: 93 Points
Big,beautiful,yummy,inky black,plush mouthful of plum, black berry,and hints of sweet spices and a bit of coffee.
And, a great finish.
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9/18/2007 - dannyk8232 wrote: 95 Points
Consistent w previous notes
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9/15/2007 - WineTrooper wrote: 93 Points
Delicious. Extraordinary bouquet of blueberry and heavy molasses. Brown sugar, vanilla, dark berries on a very very long finish. Yes, a heavy wine but it has finesse. We actually had it with portobella lasagna and it did not destroy the food...
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8/31/2007 - grossie wrote: 91 Points
Nice bottle. Still quite big and a little harsh. Would benefit from about 3 more years.
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8/27/2007 - dannyk8232 wrote: 95 Points
Once again - fabulous. Rich, smooth and balanced. Very fun yet classy.
It is still young, and is greatly beneficial to decant for 2 or 3 hours minimum.
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8/25/2007 - thelostverse wrote: 93 Points
Opened but not decanted. Inky dark color opaque throughout. Powerful nose of blueberry and brown sugar. The nose outshines the palate, which has some blueberry, plum and spice. Ample tannins still present and showing some heat initially. Nice mouthfeel and nice balance, but I'll wait another year or so before opening my next bottle.
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8/25/2007 - goldstein wrote: 93 Points
always a welcome addition to my meal. too bad this vintage can't be found now. bg
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8/22/2007 - hudamang wrote: 92 Points
Compared to the Mollydooker Boxer, this had a similar nose but was more balanced on the palate. Easier to consume.
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8/16/2007 - mwagner7700 wrote: 94 Points
Had as one of my birthday wines. Incredible again. As soon as you open this, the nose just fills the entire room. Blueberry, Blackberry, pepper, vanilla and oak. The tannins are still very strong, and I detected more heat than I remember from last time. This is still a remarkable wine. 93-95 points.
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8/5/2007 - dannyk8232 wrote: 95 Points
Amazing as usual
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7/30/2007 - goldstein wrote: 93 Points
really rich sweet fruit and velvet from t=0 to t=z. glad i stocked up on this. bg
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7/14/2007 - terroir wrote: 92 Points
Big beautiful shiraz,dittos to all the other reviews. Must decant for at least 45 minutes.. Lovely,as it explodes on your palate.
Dark fruit,blueberry, crushed berries etc. etc.
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6/30/2007 - sumshark wrote: 92 Points
No notes, wine needs about two hours to reallt start to sing.
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6/20/2007 - neighborbill wrote: 93 Points
Smooth and velvety with good fruit. vanilla is eveident at beginning but later dark cherry flavor takes over.
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6/18/2007 - Wrighty wrote: 93 Points
Danny's leaving dinner (again) (Crown Wine Cellars, Hong Kong): I'm glad this was as good as I remembered. Chocolate, butter scotch, blueberry, currant, summer pudding, perfumed.
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6/16/2007 - vanpe003 wrote: 93 Points
Great fruit and intensity, both on nose and palate. Not a ton of structure....wasn't as good the second day...didn't totally fall apart, but significant decline.
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6/8/2007 - budman wrote: 93 Points
,,,again. Tons of fruit on the nose and palate.
It'll be interesting to see how this develops!!!
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6/7/2007 - N2Vin wrote: 92 Points
I finally got to taste this wine with my taste buds on full alert. The initial nose is one of butter rum, caramel, blueberry syrup, and sweet crushed violets along with black licorice and toasted vanilla oak. This is a super ripe hedonistic shiraz full of extraction, concentration and alcohol. But it all comes together in the signature Aussie style. This reminds me a lot of the 04 MP 9 Shiraz. It's got that candied style like they should have a Jelly Belly flavor named after it.
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6/3/2007 - dannyk8232 wrote: 94 Points
Double decanted using my shiny new decanting funnel, then served 4 hours later.
Rich, concentrated purple in the glass. Nose consists of a combination of blackberry, blueberry and chocolate. Almost undetectable notes of vanilla. Big blast of deep black fruit immediately upon tasting, and a silky smooth wave of dark chocolate on the midpalate. Pleasantly mouth-coating. Medium to full-bodied with a velvety texture. Nice balanced finish of 45 seconds or so without any noticeable heat or overwhelmingly drying tannins. I really love this wine. With sufficient breathing time, it really sings.
40+5+5+18+18+8=94
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5/20/2007 - jswanson wrote: 94 Points
Excellent wine for the money. Plenty of fruit on the nose and palate with a nice finish...smooth and velvety. Drink now, no need to wait. This is a excellent wine.
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5/14/2007 - orcharddude22 wrote: 94 Points
Strong nose of brown sugar, licorice and butterscotch. Smooth mouthfeel. Black fruit, rum butter, espresso, pepper and graphite. Smooth tannins. Great QPR. At the original pricepoint this wine is a steal.
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5/13/2007 - danibus wrote: 91 Points
Big and ripe, typical shiraz palate, though well balanced and not syrupy despite the extract. Surprisingly good length. Well made. Inflated WS score, but a nice QPR nevertheless.
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5/12/2007 - budman wrote: 93 Points
Superb nose of blackberry and dark fruit. The palate did not disappoint. Long finish, with vanilla, and dark fruit notes.
A QPR monster!
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4/22/2007 - sinebubble wrote:
I'm disappointed to say that I don't remember much about this bottle. Girl said it improved with food, but I cannot recall anything. Will be much more careful with my remaining bottles.
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4/15/2007 - jim dixon wrote: 90 Points
This bottle not as impressive as the first, even on day two. Still quite good, though.
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4/15/2007 - suthersm wrote:
good. deep dark fruit and slate. ripe. likely will benefit from some time in the cellar.
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4/3/2007 - Jay Hack wrote: 93 Points
I really really really like this wine. This one was a pop and pour after a two hour car ride, compared to my last one which had a 90 minute decant. Lots of blue and red fruits with spice and a great mouth feel. Like I have said before, if you think that Aussie Shiraz belongs on pancakes, this wine is not for you. There is no delicacy here, just up front nose and up front flavor, but I do not find it disjointed. The color is very dark. After a while in the bottle, the last few ounces were starting to show some secondary flavors and secondary aromas. There was a bit of wood, but it was not oak. Sort of a cross between oak and cedar, and the pepper was sneaking out. I will try to keep a few of these to see how they age, but it will be hard to keep my hands off them.
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4/1/2007 - hamiltonc wrote: 84 Points
It had its strong points, but it was just all out of whack...way too much black pepper...no harmony amongst the parts. Based on the disconnect between my impression and others' ratings, I would have thought it was a flawed bottle, but it didn't taste like one.
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3/25/2007 - dfitzg2 wrote: 97 Points
Call me impressionable, but I thought this an especially great wine. Great color! Great initial presence! Great complexity...fruit galore! Great finish and nose. What else is needed?
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3/21/2007 - DFC wrote: 92 Points
Decanted and poured. Full-bodied wine that is dark magenta/purple in color. On the nose, blackberries, flowers, and cocoa. On the palate, oodles of dark berry fruit, licorice, and vanilla. I was prepared to be disappointed in this wine after all the attention it has garnered, but I was instead very pleasantly surprised. Massively endowed with fruit, but not over-the-top in Aussie sweetness, this wine has good balance and an incredibly persistent 40+ second finish. Great QPR!
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3/15/2007 - dannyk8232 wrote: 94 Points
Sweet nose of blueberry, plum and maple syrup. Yes, maple syrup. Very dark in the glass. REALLY needed to be decanted for at least 2 hrs. Definitely changed a lot. At first, tasted tart and green, almost mouth puckering. After 2 hrs, tastes just as good as the nose, which is excellent. Medium-full bodied, with an inexplicable silky mouthfeel which is prevalent only in great wines. Medium finish, very well balanced. A steal for under $30. I have 3 more bottles. I wish I had more.
40+5+5+18+18+7=93
Next day - overnight in the decanter did even more good - this wine exhibits terrific aromas of black berries and brown sugar, flavors of black berries, chocolate and spice, and a nice velvety finish that goes on for 45 seconds. A wonderful value for the price. Maybe the best value wine I have had yet. Pretty damn good! Anyone want to trade? Bumping up to 95 pts.
3rd Day - had a glass or so left, and its really softened into a mellow, dark wine with aromas and flavors of chocolate and coffee. A really well made wine. Im a big fan. Sticking with 95 pts.Above score reflects 93 for day one and 95 afterward.
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3/13/2007 - mattiasjansson wrote: 85 Points
Blind Night - Jeff Nowak's (Jeff Nowak's house): Black olives. Big bruiser. Off kilt. Not my style. (My bottle.)
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3/13/2007 - kstoddard wrote: 82 Points
Blind Night (Jeff): Blackberries, boysenberries, blueberries, leather and earth. Very one dimensional. A bit alcoholic on the finish. Very tiring to drink. Big tannins. My first guess was an over the top Central Coast or Napa Syrah. After finding out it was Australian, I thought either Molly Dooker or Marquis-Phillips. Not a fan of this style. 14.5% alcohol. Brought by Mattias.
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3/9/2007 - goldstein wrote: 96 Points
ok; this is like buttah! very very rich and smooth. what was written by w/s earlier has come true. my first bottle last year bit me hard. but now it is kissing me ever so softly. if you can find this now, buy it. for the money, you will be very happy. that's all i know. bg
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3/8/2007 - hudamang wrote: 91 Points
Another nice showing. Blueberry with that Barossa funk. A very nice QPR.
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2/24/2007 - Paul Lin wrote: 92 Points
Harvey says to wait until 2008, but who can wait? Same notes as before, but I highly recommend decanting this wine before drinking it -- otherwise you might find it a bit too acidic and disjointed. However, after two hours in the decanter, it was drinking beautifully.
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2/20/2007 - guitarguy wrote: 92 Points
My second bottle and none have hit Harvey's 96 rating. Still good and the fruit is integrating with the other flavors in the wine.
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2/18/2007 - Jay Hack wrote: 93 Points
Decanted 90 minutes before first drinking. The initial nose upon decanting was bright fruits, blackberry, blueberry and plums, with a touch of sweetness. This is a wonderful Aussie Shiraz to my taste. If you complain about too sweet, too much fruit, and pancake syrup, you may not like this one, but I find it very smooth and easy to drink with a lot of blue fruits and plums. Somtimes I like wines with flavors that I don't have to stuggle to find, especially with a nice roast beef, baked potato and roasted Brussel sprouts dinner. Excellent mouth feel. A bit of sweetness from the fruit. Very little European syrah pepper and spice but there is a bit in the background. May come out more as it ages. The color is extremely dark, almost black in the glass. Long finish. Alcohol is unobtrusive although the bottle says 14.1% to 16%. Goes down very easy. After reading a lot of Mollydooker Carnival of Love TNs, some good, some very critical, this wine seems like the value priced version of what other people are describing about COL, which I have not yet had.
Closure is "Diam" fake cork. Hope it will hold because I want to let a few of these age to see how it develops. I gave a bottle of this to a non-wineaux for his birthday dinner with his wife and he liked it so much, he sent me two thank you e-mails.
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2/10/2007 - ormazd wrote: 93 Points
Fairly unimpressive on day 1, although the deep hue was noteworthy. It really opened up the second day. Brown sugar, blackberries, and a lovely mouthfeel and finish with a hint of pepper. Not quite a 96 pointer for me, but a very,very nice QPR wine.
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2/9/2007 - ChiGuy wrote: 95 Points
It tastes like someone poured cream over a bowl of liquefied rasberries and smoked a cigar right before eating-- then you cracked a little pepper on your tongue. I expected a lot from this wine, and knew that this bottle may have been opened a little early-- but it was as good as advertised. I have 5 more bottles-- I know there will be at least 5 more great days in my life. It's for real on this one.
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2/8/2007 - johnwine wrote: 89 Points
This is a delicious Shiraz, lighter than the reserve but still with concentrated flavors of framboise, black rasberries and cherries.
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1/27/2007 - HurrahSyrah wrote: 94 Points
Decanted for 1.5 hrs and drank over the next 2 hrs. This shiraz exhibited a dark inky purple color. On the nose, a beautiful bouquet of blackberries, plums, blueberries, black raspberries, and coffee with hints of pepper. On the palate, this shiraz continues to be a rich and jammy shiraz with flavors of plums, raspberries, blackberries wrapped up in a peppery silky smooth finish. My WOTN. HS94
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1/27/2007 - puterdewd wrote: 88 Points
Tasted twice and it just doesn't measure up. The body is lacking, definitely no finish and the nose is somewhat weak. Not sure what wine spectator was thinking.
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1/26/2007 - chateaumiller wrote: 93 Points
OUTSTANDING
Full bodied and balanced like no Shiraz I have ever tasted. Full of dark fruit and well structured with serious integrated tannins. If I could buy wmore I would!
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1/22/2007 - Mrbuzz wrote: 96 Points
Damn...this is good! I was sceptical with all the talk of over-scored, over-hyped......but this is pretty nice juice! Rich and juicy blackberry/wild berry fruit....HUGE exotic spice, dried wintergreen tobacco, cherry cordials, kirsch, toffee. Full bodied, full flavored, somewhat exotic, well integrated woods. Not too sweet/oaked/over the top. I think this drinks wonderful! Especially for $24!
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1/21/2007 - orcharddude22 wrote: 94 Points
Incredible nose of brown sugar, vanilla, and dark fruit. Silky mouthfeel with espresso, chocolate, spice and blueberry flavors. Should continue to evolve and improve with some age. A great wine for a cold soggy afternoon.
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1/8/2007 - parathesis wrote: 93 Points
Very good nose and pleasing aroma. Needs to be decated. Velvety and soft on the mouth, well balnced with blueberries, black cherries, plums, vanilla bean and sweet spices. A lot going on here. Will only get better with time.
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1/7/2007 - jswanson wrote: 93 Points
Excellent wine for the money. Plenty of fruit on the nose and palate with a nice finish...smooth and velvety. Drink now, no need to wait. This is a excellent wine.
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12/29/2006 - gellie wrote: 92 Points
just great!Everything is there,fruit,complexity outsatnding structure.best wine for the price i have ever tasted.
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12/21/2006 - sbpwjm wrote: 95 Points
WOW!! Easily the best $28 shiraz we have had to date. Smooth and velvety with cherries and spices. A hidden mineral quality. So good I rushed back to the store to by more of it the very next day. Found out afterwards that WS had scored it so highly.
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12/20/2006 - rmodak wrote: 91 Points
At this stage this was OTT for me. Very lush and jammy with layers of blueberry/raspberry, menthol and vanilla. It tasted too lush. I feel it was in balance and so my score reflects the potential improvement in the next 3-5 years.
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12/19/2006 - hudamang wrote: 91 Points
First night had a weird funk on the nose but on the 2nd night, bottle evolved into a well rounded wine with some dark berries and anise and pepper. Has all the syrah notes but well integrated tannins. They're present but the sweet chocolate and dark fruit flavors help mellow them out. Nice wine! I would say it'll age for a few years. If decanting, decant a while...First sip was too sweet but wine became much better on day 2.
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12/18/2006 - ND1995 wrote: 93 Points
Very good but will most likely develop further with some more bottle age.
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12/18/2006 - smokie wrote: 88 Points
Have to go against the grain here. American oak was to evident, though the fruit/mouthfeel was nice if not complex. Popped and poured with friends, no chance to decant or let sit awhile. Hoping this will get better with age/decanting.
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12/18/2006 - Weinlakai wrote: 93 Points
Too good to be true for the money. Best QPR in a long time. Buy all you can, because this baby is going long-term and imagine it even gets better :-)
Very important: decant at least 4 hours... and try to save some for the next or even the day after the next, because it will become better and better!!!
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12/12/2006 - tskrueger wrote: 93 Points
Popped and drank in a plastic cup in a hotel...and still showed a 92 or 93. Young, but incredibly good. Bright fruit, black raspberry, loads of vanilla and brown sugar. With all of that, surprisingly not as much of a fruit bomb as I suspected. Nice pretty floral perfume that floats above the fruit. Impressive balance for a young Aussie. Don't know if this will ever reach the 96 points WS gave it, but for the money, it gets awfully close.
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12/11/2006 - Paul Lin wrote: 92 Points
Now that the fuss is over, I feel safe trying this wine. Initially tart and acidic upon opening, but after about an hour and a half in the decanter, it started to mellow out to become more round. Lush and festive nose of molasses, brown sugar, and holiday spices. Silky mouthfeel, elegant even, not at all syrupy or hot like some Australian Shirazes. Very balanced and multi-layered, with rich plum and dark chocolate notes, some molasses and blueberry on the midpalate, and finishing with touch of cranberry and cherry. Medium-full body. Medium acidity. All in all, a very nice, complex wine that will only improve with time and is a steal for the price. 92+
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12/7/2006 - markandsara wrote: 96 Points
Wow. Incredible nose and aroma. One of the best shiraz ive ever had!
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12/1/2006 - jeffbramwell wrote: 91 Points
My second bottle, this one showed a lot better than the first. My notes are consistent with those already posted. Nice bottle, a decent value, but nowhere near a 96 pointer.
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11/26/2006 - HurrahSyrah wrote: 94 Points
Decanted for 3 hrs. Inky black with classic shiraz aromas of plum, blueberry, blackberry, raspberry and hints of spice. On the palate, this was a rich and jammy shiraz with flavors of plums, blackberries, raspberries wrapped in a smooth peppery finish. Very nice and now I'm glad that it didn't break WS Top 100, so more for us at the release price. HS94
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11/19/2006 - GSinger wrote: 94 Points
too young. Do not drink until at least '08. Still -- wonderful.....
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11/19/2006 - ddamron wrote: 93 Points
Opened after an hour in the decanter. Not a 96 but a great value with chocholate, vanilla and blueberry.
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11/18/2006 - GreenDrazi wrote: 93 Points
Decanted 2 hr’s. Consistent with previous notes and is even better integrated now. Terrific value.
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11/16/2006 - guitarguy wrote: 90 Points
Not a 96, at least not now with this bottle. It should never surprise me when the Speculator overrates a wine. I swear I had purchased 6 of these but WineX sent and charged me for 18 so I kept them rather than argue and return them to LA. Check your orders from WineX very closely, they keep screwing mine up. Nose is classic shiraz, fruit and earth. There are substantial tannins, although they are not overpowering the fruit in this wine. There is a lot of tar and chocolate in the initial flavor profile wiht a tad of bitterness. Finish is okay, not overly long but pleasantly lasting. I am surprised the fruit is not more bright, it is quite dark. Oak is also evident in the mouth. Overall, I think this will evolve into a good wine for $25 but it will never reach 96 points and a blow-out QPR as suggested by Harvey Steiman and some others here.
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11/13/2006 - orcharddude22 wrote: 92 Points
Drank a bottle on delivery. Needs substantial decanting. Great value.
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11/1/2006 - bajayngo wrote: 87 Points
for the score WS gave this I was expecting more. It's a good wine not a typical shiraz though. Good fruit w/ a lot of acidity. some floral notes, dark fruit, very dark in the glass w/good balance.
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11/1/2006 - mwagner7700 wrote: 95 Points
WOW!!!
Had to drink this because the bottle was ever-so-slightly cracked upon delivery on Tuesday night. So, I poured the wine from the cracked bottle into a decanter, covered with cling wrap, and threw it in the fridge. So, technically this was opened for 24 hours. Huge wine. Ink-staining black. The nose... oh the nose. Brown sugar, blueberry, blackberry, spice, eucalyptus and vanilla bean. All of the same on the palate with some chocolate notes. Rich and jammy. Persistant tannins, and a long finish. Very deserving of the WS score in my eyes. Wonderful, I bought a case thinking I'd flip a few, but this is just too good... I'm keeping them all!!! 94-96 points.
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10/30/2006 - Zingrrl wrote: 90 Points
I gave this an 88 and Sweetie gave it a 92 - so the 90 is a compromise. Very big fruit right up front, jammy and thick. Way too much of something for me in the finish, think it was eucalyptus. For the price - I'm willing to put a bottle or 2 down to try later - Sweetie is ready to get a case. It's all about taste.
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10/29/2006 - mcintyre wrote: 93 Points
needs at least an hour to open. big wine for this price!
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10/27/2006 - Thilo wrote: 92 Points
Color is dark purple. Nose shows plum, dark berry, hint of tar, and spice. On the palate, soft plum and blackberry meld with mild earthy notes...a good dose of acidity keeps it lighter on its feet.
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10/21/2006 - Frijole wrote:
jammy, blackberry, little cloudy, pinkish edges
Nose: hot, pepper, soury cherry, sage, earth, oak, mint
Pal: full round cherries, blackberries, fruit bomb up front, chocolate, vanilla, jammy, plum, pepper, sour on back, could be complex
Feel: full and jammy, very big
Finish: long
TC9
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10/18/2006 - VinoRosso wrote: 93 Points
Nice nose of mollases and brown sugar. Very smooth on the palate with no hard edges. Nice finish, but somewhat one dimensional. I don't see the 96 that WS gave this wine, but it is a solid offering nonetheless.
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10/15/2006 - dougie wrote: 93 Points
Wow! blueberry and rich. good finish for a new wine. Rich,but not to syrupy. Awesome for the money!
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10/13/2006 - jim dixon wrote: 94 Points
Needs air. This was 91 on day one, 94 on day two. Excellent, robust, and complex Aussie.
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10/11/2006 - ScottS wrote: 95 Points
Deep reddish purple in color, on the nose licorice & cocoa. Full bodied wine with plum and milk chocolate tones, mouth coating, hugely concentrated and extremely well BALANCED! One of the best Aussie shiraz's I've tasted. At $21.15 inclusive, I'm definately looking to add to the other 9 bottles!
50+5+14+18+8=95 pts
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10/10/2006 - Wrighty wrote: 93 Points
South Africa vs. Australia (Crown Wine Cellars, Hong Kong): Deep dark red. Clean fresh nose with blackcurrants and blackberries. Fudge, caramel on the palate with candied peel on the finish.
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10/9/2006 - N2Vin wrote:
Cannot rate with sinus condition affecting taste and smell. Noted extrordinarily smooth creamy texture coating the mouth. Will rate a later date.
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10/5/2006 - grossie wrote: 91 Points
I opened one tonight at an offline with R2-D2, J3, and Steve8. This was compared to some italian wines, and it was a relative beast! Huge Pride-like nose, a little jammy, definitely Aussie shiraz, although I didn't find that minty side I like in Shiraz. On the palate it was quite full-bodied but not over-extracted or sweet, with a long finish. No bitterness, this is a nice and round wine. The alcohol was listed as 14.1-16%, and I would bet it's somewhere in the middle- it felt like 15% or so. This could probably use a little time to settle down, and the question was raised whether or not a wine like this improves with age. I don't know. In my books it's worth about 90 or 91 points right now. I'll have another crack at one in a few months.
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10/5/2006 - GreenDrazi wrote: 93 Points
Decanted ½ hr. Strong, dense blueberry and mint nose. Predominately rich and concentrated blueberry and plum with a nice combination of secondary flavors of blackberry, pepper, spice, eucalyptus and tar. A touch sweet with a silky texture, polished tannins and some acidity, yet slightly thin on the back of the palate with a medium finish. Excellent Shiraz for the price.
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9/30/2006 - gr8r84u wrote: 95 Points
Wow to find this in a wine bar... lucky me. Classic Aussie Shiraz. Taste and nose developed well in the glass. Drank in a bar so it's tough to go back and give a detailed description but I can tell you that this wine can hold it's own with some of the best. Drinks well now but the structure is there I'd hold on a while before diving in. If I could find some, I'd buy it in a second. 93ish today... 95+ in a few years.
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9/30/2006 - texaswino wrote: 93 Points
Complex and aromatic wine. I can't see the WS 96 yet but in a few years, who knows. It does have layers and layers of flavors, blueberries, spice, pepper, tar, smoke. I will hold the others for another couple of years before cracking the next one.
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9/30/2006 - dfontana wrote:
drank one early from a case purchase to see if it was worth the 96 points the WS gave it. The wine was dark, inky with a berrylike nose and a hint of pepper. Typical Shiraz. Great legs and body. This was definitely close to mid 90's and represents serious value at 24 dollars.
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7/31/2006 - Yablonsky wrote: 92 Points
What a Fantastic and Smooth, Velvety wine this was. Couldn't believe how great the taste was on this. Black Cherry and Plum and spices. Just couldn't wait on this one. Was worth opening early.
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