2005 Gibson Australian Old Vine Collection Shiraz

Magnificent colour saturation showing absolutely no sign of its ten plus year age. Impenetrable black as night core with a very deep dark red black hue. Pronounced ripe black cherry and liquorice aromas dominate the nose over some spicy dark plum nuances, chocolatey vanillin oak, hints of earth and pepper. Rich, brooding and supplely textured the palate boasts superb concentration and power. Gorgeous layers of succulent liquorice, ripe black cherry and dark plum fruit saturate the mouth over a back drop of vanillin oak, subtle earthy dark chocolate nuances and spice. Ripe opulent tannins complete the picture with a very long liquorice, black cherry, dark plum, spicy vanillin oak and earthy chocolate aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc 14.5%

Other Reviews….
The 2005 Shiraz Barossa Valley “Old Vine Collection” was aged for 20 months in new French oak. It is purple/black with a big, brooding nose of smoky oak, bacon, grilled meat, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. Tightly wound on the palate but oozing with spicy blue and black fruits, the wine is balanced, structured and very long in the finish. It requires 6-8 years in the cellar and will drink well through 2035.
96 points
Jay Miller – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

'Resplendent in its generosity', the late Jack Mann would have said with unmitigated approval; luscious but focused and long, a pure expression of seriously old vine grapes. Drink by 2025.
96 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion