2013 Seppelt Chalambar Shiraz

First produced in 1953 with legendary winemaker Colin Preece at the helm and labelled as Chalambar Burgundy, the 2013 vintage marks the 60th anniversary release of Seppelt Chalambar Shiraz. Fruit for this wine was predominately sourced from the Grampians (80%) with parcels also coming from Heathcote and Bendigo. 22% of the wine was aged in new French oak barriques with the balance in older French oak and a small portion in tank for a period of 12 months.

A top Chalambar proving what an Outstanding vintage 2013 was in central Victoria.

Opens with a superb inky black purple colour with a very deep purple black hue showing outstanding depth. Scented aromas of ripe blackberries, dark plum and liquorice overlay a backdrop of vanillin cedar and spicy blackpepper. Medium to full bodied the palate possesses bountiful richness counterpointed by a robust structure. Generous flavours of ripe blackberries, liquorice and dark plum are to the fore with vanillin cedar and spicy pepper on the back palate. Dry, slightly chalky tannins provide some grip resulting in a nice compact finish which will soften with time. Long blackberry, liquorice, vanillin cedar and spicy pepper aftertaste.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc 14.5%

Other Reviews….
High-quality grapes and skilful winemaking creates a vividly coloured Chalambar that would have greatly pleased its creator, Colin Preece, whose great wines were usually blends of varieties and/or regions. The spicy, fragrant black fruits of the Grampians provide the elegance and intensity, Heathcote adding mid-palate flesh. This will age superbly, and is a great bargain. Drink by 2038.
96 points
James Halliday – Wine Companion

A monumental bargain. Epic proportions. Grampians Shiraz with help from Heathcote. Ripe fruit. Swish oak. Quality tannin. Extended length. You can’t ask for much more. Plums and cloves, peppers and smoky oak. It’s a superb release. Hands down. No correspondence need be entered into. Drink: 2015-2030
95 points
Campbell Mattinson - The Wine Front.