1998 Chapoutier Australia Syrah

Marc Chapoutier has expanded his operations to Australia, forming joint ventures to produce Shiraz. Opaque crimson purple colour. Youthful and very vibrant. The nose displays a distinctly fresh influence. Its exotic aromas testimony as to the future potential of the Mt Benson operations. Exotic, earthy plum, black pepper and spice aromas. Again, the earthiness is apparent on the palate followed by a hint of confectionary, blackpepper and liquorice. Velvet smooth tannins with long spicy liquorice aftertaste. Cellar 5-8 years.

RETASTED 29/01/2000: A Shiraz with only 12.5% alcohol is by Australian standards relatively low when one considers most of the wines are between 13.5% and 14.5% Alcohol Volume. However, inspite of the relatively low alcohol there is plenty of flavour in this wine. Medium body, crimson colour. Delightful nose with aromas of ripe stewed fruits, spice, vanilla and plum with a subtle earthy end note. On the palate flavours of plum, stewed fruit and blackcurrants are dominant with subtle earthy overtones. Perfect balance, fine grained soft tannins with spice, confectionary and liquorice aftertaste. Cellar 4-5 years.