2014 St. Hallett Old Block Shiraz

Sourced from Barossa Valley (62%) and Eden Valley (38%), the youngest vineyard used in the 2014 Old Block Shiraz was planted in 1963, whilst the oldest was from one planted in 1870. Maturation takes place in a mixture of new and old French oak.
Totally opaque black colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Intense ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromatics are drawn from the glass followed by smoky vanillin cedar, hints of earth, some meatiness and spicy blackpepper notes. Rich, opulently textured flavours of liquorice, blackberry and dark plum grace the palate showing great finesse and refinement. Sitting underneath is smoky vanillin cedar, traces of fennel, earth and pepper. Seamlessly integrated, very polished tannins and balanced acidity provide great structure. Excellent length and power concluding with an aftertaste of liquorice, blackberry, dark plum, smoky cedar, subtle earth, dried meats and lots of pepper.
Cellar 8-10 years.
Alc. 14.4%

Other Reviews….
Average vine age 88 years, hand-picked, a combination of open and tank fermentation, some whole bunches included, matured in French oak. A masterpiece created from ancient vines and the continuing skilled winemaking team at St Hallett. This is elegance of the highest degree, with medium-bodied, supple red and black fruits flowing along the prodigiously long palate and aftertaste, the use of French oak the key. Drink by 2039.
97 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion