1997 Kay Brothers Hillside Shiraz

The original Block 6 was 12 acres in size, of which only 4 have remained in tact with grandfather vines still bearing tiny yields. Colin Kay on the anniversary of the 100th vintage of Block 6 shiraz, struck cuttings from the old vines and replanted the barren 6 acres. The 1997 Hillside Shiraz is the first vintage from this vineyard and whilst the crop was tiny, producing 0.82 tonnes per acre, the wine is exceptional.Opaque crimson purple colour. The nose is not quite as pronounced as the Block 6 but none the less still very impressive. Aromas of ripe plums, spice and blackberries entice the nose with an anticipation of what is to follow. The palate is far more peppery than Block 6 with pronounced flavours of blackberry fruit and a hint of liquorice. Fine grained firm tannin structure but in excellent balance. Excellent depth and concentration followed by very long blackberry, spice and vanilla aftertaste. Cellar 5-8 years. An excellent first release. Stocks are extremely limited.