2005 The Colonial Estate Explorateur Shiraz

Opaque black crimson colour with black purple hue. Perfumed nose, with top note of liquorice, followed by confectionary, vanilla and spice, with ripe plum end note. The palate has good weight with a joosy ripe plum quality. Flavours of liquorice are dominant. Fine grained tannins, excellent balance. Aftertaste of ripe plum and liquorice allsorts.
Cellar 3-4 years (2010-2011)
Alc/Vol: N/S

Other Reviews... The blockbuster, inky/ruby/purple-hued 2005 L’Explorateur Shiraz offers sweet aromas of blackberries, white pepper, licorice, and graphite. While full-bodied, powerful, and rich, it also displays striking finesse and elegance, no doubt because of its aging in French oak. It should last for 15 or more years.
Rating: 95
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate #167(Oct 2006)