Henschke Mt. Edelstone Shiraz 2003

The Mount Edelstone vineyard, meaning gemstone, is a single delineated historic vineyard planted in the early 1900s on the eastern slopes of the hill of the same name, located near Keyneton high in the range east of the Barossa Valley. Aged vines, deep loam soil, Mediterranean climate and traditional hands-on winemaking techniques have continued to create one of Australia's most unique old-vine Shiraz wines. The 90-year-old dry-grown vines are low yielding, producing extraordinary intensity of color, depth of fruit flavors, complexity and palate length.

Deep crimson in color. Sweet ripe lifted blackberry, plums, prunes and anise with tar and bacon oak characters. The palate is sweet, fine and solid with a chunky texture; big and rich. Lots of tannins, firmer structure and good length.

Cellaring potential: Great vintage, drink 2007-2015.

Serving idea: Porcini & taleggio risotto

"A marvelous effort, this features a gorgeously seductive bouquet of herbs, spice, blueberries and stone fruit, all framed by a touch of cedary oak. In the mouth, it's creamy and lush, but well-structured, ending with a dose of dusty tannins and an extra blast of fruit. Has it all: ample complexity, intensity and length, with its components in finely judged balance for aging through 2015."
-Wine Enthusiast