2002 Gilligan Shiraz Grenache Mourvedre

A superb example of a Rhone blend that is surrounded by a degree of mystery concerning the parties who were involved with the winemaking. LEIGH GILLIGAN (the marketing brains behind Dowie Doole) and his brother own the 70 year old Grenache vines, however, they are located some distance from his house. The House block contains the Shiraz component which is situated next door to one of Australia's most brilliant winemakers (who is also a great mate of Gilligan's). Gilligan maintains that he wrote the brief for the winemaking, whilst MARK DAY carried out the task, and his son Sami was responsible for the viticulture. The famous neighbours described by Robert Parker "as true superstars in South Australia" apparently supervised from the fence line and tasted the wine prior to blending. Now that's all about as confusing as the relationship between Gilligan, Mary Ann, the Skipper, Ginger, the Professor and Mr & Mrs Howell - whose previous address was Gilligan's Island. The wine is of course outstanding.

Tasting Note: Opaque crimson colour with crimson purple hue. The nose is aromatic being almost perfumed. Notes of violets, spice and liquorice emerge followed by hints of cherry ripe and raspberry. The palate is mouthfilling with flavours of liquorice, spice and raspberry over a layer of toasted oak followed by a spicy black pepper back palate. Fine grained tannins with very long aftertaste of spice and black pepper.
Cellar 3-4 years (2006-2007)
Alc/Vol: 15.0%

RATING: 95/100

VALUE: XXXXX/5