An estate surrounded by some controversy perhaps. Because of high alcohol wines. And because Parker loved them back then. But they are one of my all-time favorite Australian producers: the wines made here are different. They have a distinct, traditionalist feel to them I tend to find only in France and Italy.

This is a rich and ripe wine, proper Barossa Shiraz, but it’s compact and restrained at the same time. Licorice blackness, mint, herbs on the nose, as well as quality oak and a subtle touch of leather. Tarry notes in the background, just like in a Cornas. Elegant to taste, no heat, no jammy flavors. And then that most extraordinary aftertaste! When you swallow this, you realize that most wines don’t even have a real aftertaste in comparison, while the aromatic intensity here is simply astonishing.