2003 Tyrrell's Rufus Stone Heathcote Shiraz

A magnificent example of Heathcote Shiraz and at a price that is nothing short of a bargain! The pricing structure is totally out of kilter with other Heathcote producers, and that is due to the fact that Tyrrell’s average their production costs over all regions, thereby, lowering the price points from premium producing areas. Whilst this is great for the consumer and Tyrrell’s market share, it creates a good deal of price pressure amongst Rufus Stone’s neighbours. Needless to say, the wine is a snap at this price. The only bad news is that the continued dry growing conditions of 2003 have resulted in even lower yields than the 2002 vintage meaning that there’s even less to go round this vintage.

Produced from vines planted in 1994 the small 2003 harvest produced fruit of great intensity and flavour. The wine was matured in 70% French and 30% American oak for a period of 15 months before final blending and bottling. As a result of the concentration and intensity of fruit, a higher than usual percentage of new oak was used – 40% new with the balance of 60% being made up of one and two year old barriques.
Tasting Notes: Opaque black crimson purple colour – a saturate of colour. The nose is unmistakably Heathcote, with its violets and blackberry top note, followed by spice and liquorice. The palate is mouthfilling, with explosive black pepper flavours which are overlaid with spice, liquorice, vanilla and dark chocolate. Fine grained tannins, followed by a very long aftertaste of vanilla, spice, black pepper, plum and blackberry juice. Stocks are sure to disappear quickly so be quick!!
Cellar 4-5 years (2009-2010)
Alc/Vol: 15.2%