2018 The Standish Shiraz

Exceptionally deep and incredibly saturated in colour with an inky black heart and a dark purple black hue. Captivating aromas of liquorice, blackberry and black cherry soar out of the glass trailed by subtle smoky vanillin cedar, fennel, scorched earth, hints of dark chocolate, dried herbs and pepper. Boasting out of this world richness and power with a dense opulent texture somehow this wine manages to not be too heavy or overbearing and retains a sense of refinement. Sumptuous black fruits cascade across the palate is seemingly never ending waves supported by a firm tannin structure that appears velvet like beneath the sheer depth of fruit. Beautifully integrated elements of vanillin cedar, clove, light scorched earth, fennel, pepper and spice are also apparent. Rich and remarkably long finish.
Cellar 10-15 years.
Alc. 14.9%

Other Reviews….
The 2018 The Standish Shiraz (a sample blend from barrel) is a bit stalky (it's about 50% whole cluster), but it's gorgeously perfumed, with hints of herbal tea, raspberries, blackberries and licorice. It just exudes complexity, while also being full-bodied, plush and creamy, with a long, elegant finish. This seamless beauty is a candidate for perfection. Drink 2020-2040.
98-100 points
Joe Czerwinski – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

Laycock Family Vineyard, Parbs Road, Greenock. I whipped through the five 2018 releases, pouring a tiny glass, swilling, and maybe swallowing, just to get an instant fix on relative quality. It’s a technique that’s most often helpful to get a first impression. And for the most part, first impressions are very important. This, and the Lamella, jumped out at me straight off. Some whole bunch employed in this wine, which works very well.
Spicy black fruit, dark and brooding, but finds its way through the mouth as surely as a cat in the night. Black liquorice, fresh picked blackberry and boysenberry, deep but with no shortage of energy and freshness, the tannin grips with a fine chalk powder texture, green tea perfume adds a little edge, and the finish is so long, stony and bright. It’s a class act from start to finish. Drink 2023-2040.
97 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front