2018 Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz

From the textbook 2018 vintage, Kaesler’s Old Bastard Shiraz is sourced from a 125 year old vineyard. Maturation taking place in French oak barriques, 80% of which are new, for a period of 12-16 months.
Impenetrable inky black in colour with a very deep bright dark purple black hue. Soaring out of the glass are potent blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas with black cherry, vanillin cedar, fennel and pepper notes ensuing. Decadently rich and opulent the palate is layered with a thick coating of lush blackberry, liquorice, black cherry and black plum fruit. Possessing enormous weight and driving power, elements of toasty vanillin oak, scorched earth and fennel lie underneath. Peppery finish with ripe velvety tannins giving the wine plenty of underlying muscle. Extends into an exceptionally long and lavish finish.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews….
From a single parcel of 1893 vines on the estate. Very deep blackberry, blueberry and dark-plum aromas here with plenty of sweetly spiced oak that’s already integrated. The palate has a very rich, open and soft feel with long tannins winding the finish out very long. Blue fruit and blackcurrants with a striking, blood plum-flavored finish. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com