Henschke Mount Edelstone Shiraz

Deep crimson with deep purple hues. Pure and complex, with lifted aromatics of violets, dark plums, fresh blackberries and blueberries, and the unmistakable Mount Edelstone signature aromas of crushed sage and cracked black pepper. The palate shows incredible purity and balance, with rich plum and blackberry fruit flavors, rosehip florals and savory spice notes, finishing long with lingering plum skin and sage, and layers of fine, silky tannins. 102 yo single vineyard, matured in 92% French and 8% American hogsheads (28% new) for 18 months. Only a fraction of the normal crop, as was the case in many parts of SA and Vic. The colour is that of an 18 month-old (not 36 months) shiraz, the aromas of black fruits, licorice and black pepper, the tannins firm and enduring, yet in balance with the powerful fruit. I remain to be convinced this is suited to drinking while the '13 comes around, the best solution is to leave both to themselves for 5 or so years. From vines planted in 1912, this has been an icon of South Australia Shiaz since 1952, when it was first bottled as a single-vineyard wine. Menthol and vanilla notes frame black cherries and cassis on the nose, while the palate reveals supple tannins and meaty, savory complexities. The finish is softly dusty, fine and long. Drink now-2030. Nicely contained and composed. Really fresh blackberry fruits, dark cherries, chocolate, roasted coffee and roasting herbs. The texture is fine and silky. A wealth of blackberry and dark plum flavors that hold the middle palate with effortless length. Screw cap.