1999 Knappstein Shiraz

The Knappstein Shiraz’ have been slowly evolving into a more robust style. Totally opaque black crimson colour, with very deep mauve edge. The wine displays a very spicy blackpepper aroma over notes of blackberry and liquorice, with nuances of chocolate and coffee. The palate has depth, yet a degree of elegance – the voluptuous Barossa style is absent and a more refined Cote Rotie inspired approach is taken. Palate flavours of blackpepper, cedar and mocca. Fine grained dry tannins, followed by aftertaste of mocca, spice and blackpepper.
Cellar 4 – 5 years.

RATING: 92/100

VALUE: XXXX/5

Retasted: March 2002
A variety of fermentation techniques have been employed to maximise complexity. 8 tonne potter fermenters, 2 tonne open fermenters, with skins being hand pressed. Barrel ageing in 20% new Never and Allier barriques.
The colour is very impressive – brilliant crimson mauve purple. Aroma of liquorice, violets and spice, followed by blackberry and blackpepper end notes. The palate flavours are more subtle than the nose with blackberry, mocca and liquorice emerging. Fine tannic background – an elegant style of Shiraz.
Cellar 2-3 years (2004-2005)
Alc/Vol: 13.5%

RATING: 91/100

VALUE: XXXX/5