"This Shiraz spent 14 months in barrel, all French Oak, of which 50% was new. It has a very dark, vibrant crimson colour, and a nose that is peppery and spicy, with a hint of nutmeg before lifted red fruit and blackberry aromas come through. On the palate there's a silkiness about the texture here, with very sweet and ripe, mouth-filling berry fruit that is plush and svelte. There's a dark edge of chocolate and plum skins, and then the smokiness of the oak joins in. Tannins are firm here and pretty chunky and powerful, but they are ripe and rich, and together with a cherry skin acidity, freshen the finish of this wine. It is quite a big, full-on style (with 15% alcohol), but is a bit of an iron first in a velvet glove." www.wine-pages.com, Tom Cannavan, (Sept 2008)