1996 Annie's Lane The Contour Vineyard Shiraz

The Contour Vineyard was established in 1967 by Queltellar Wines in the Clare Valley. Planted along the contour, rather than against, the objective was to maximise water retention in this low rainfall area. In order to produce exceptional flavour crops were restricted to around three tonnes per acre. Opaque crimson mauve colour. Magnificent concentrated nose of spice, blackberry, vanillan oak and plum, just short of being perfumed. On the palate the flavours are exceptionally concentrated. Generous mouthfilling ripe fruit flavours are poised against pronounced toasted oak. The flavours of spiced blackberry concentrate, blackpepper, plum, vanilla oak and liquorice create a wonderful taste experience which is supported by fine grained tannins. Perfect balance with very long blackberry, liquorice, ripe plum, earthy and vanilla aftertaste. A first class wine!