Winemaker Notes
A deep bloody velvet color with aromas of lively white pepper and warmed aniseed. The many layers of aromas continue to reveal more. On the palate, dark plums are driven by a richness of silky ripe tannins. All in harmony and well balanced. This wine can be enjoyed now or cellared for up to 20 years.
"Numbered for the year in which was planted. Shiraz is my most challenging, yet rewarding variety. The vines grow like crazy – producing tiny, flavour packed berries. I'm constantly trying to tame this wild child, yet am amazed by its power. No. 89 is the complete opposite to the general perception of Australian Shiraz. It's both powerful and refined and framed with fine grain tannins."- Philip Shaw
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Only contains 1% Viognier, so maybe the impression is subliminal, but there does seem to be a hint of apricot to this wine’s raspberry-blueberry fruit and cracked pepper. It’s medium-bodied, with firm acids but soft tannins on the finish. Drink now and over the next 8 years.
Though Syrah originated in the Rhône Valley of France, Australia is home to the oldest Syrah (called Shiraz here) vines on the planet. Found in Australia’s Barossa Valley, where phylloxera has never threated viticulture, these ancient vines are between 140 to 175 years old!
Having brought fame and merit to the country’s wine scene since the early 1950s, namely via the debut of Penfolds Grange, today Syrah (Shiraz) claims rank as the most widely planted grape in Australia. In fact, the amount of land dedicated to Shiraz in Australia is now almost equivalent to what it is in France. Australian Shiraz has its own personality with flavors and aromas of intense blackberry, fruitcake, menthol, tobacco leaf and umami. Conveniently one can find great Australian Shiraz at a variety of price points but the very best will be dense, gloriously complex and capable of long aging.