The 1997 Shiraz Reserve comes close to resembling a dry vintage port. One of the most concentrated wines I have ever tasted (reminiscent of the Clarendon Hills Astralis), yields were not low at 3.5 tons per acre, but the 35-year old vine age and sur-maturite of this wine have resulted in something special. It boasts an opaque black/purple color, followed by a sumptuous nose of licorice, Asian spices, tar, and concentrated blackberry fruit. Thick in the mouth, with remarkably full body and surprising balance, the alcohol (15.8%), tannin, and acidity are lost in the cascades of fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2025

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