2018 Whistling Eagle Vineyard Eagles Blood Shiraz

Renown as one of Heathcote’s leading growers and viticulturalists, Ian Rathjen also produces small parcels of wine under his own label, Whistling Eagle. Matured in French oak (30% new) for a period of 18 months, the Eagles Blood Shiraz is his ultimate expression of the Cambrian terroir displaying spectacular colour, depth and power.

Rich, deep and opulent this is powerhouse Heathcote Shiraz at its best.

Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Sailing out of the glass are intense ripe blackberry and liquorice scents which meld into black cherry, scorched earth, vanillin cedar, spicy black olive and blackpepper notes. Rich and concentrated the full bodied palate boasts tremendous power and depth. Lush blackberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits saturating the mouth over a back drop of spicy vanillin oak, earthy dark chocolate, subtle dried herb and blackpepper characters. Opulent in its texture and possessing a silky smooth tannin structure it finishes exceptionally long, plush and succulent.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews….
Whole-berry ferment with inoculated yeast, extended skin contact, 18 months' maturation in French oak (30% new). A cult wine among some shiraz lovers, Eagles Blood brings the essence of Heathcote to the glass with its complexity, cool savouriness and trademark spice. Midnight blue-purple hues. Cacao, dried herbs, blackberries, dark cherry-juice aromas and a touch of bush mint. Lovely balance here, everything is in its place including woodsy tannins. There's a freshness, too. Nice attention to detail on display. Drink by 2030.
95 points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion