2000 Shiraz Reserve

The blockbuster 2000 Shiraz Reserve was aged in small barriques, foudres, and demi-muids. It boasts an inky black color as well as a fabulous bouquet of acacia flowers intermixed with blackberry and cassis liqueur, creosote, and camphor. Exceptionally long and layered, this opulent, voluptuous, pure Shiraz is a thrill to drink. The tannin, acidity, and alcohol (14.9%) are seamlessly integrated in this modern-day classic. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2020. This is one of the great wines of South Australia! During my trip to South Australia I visited with owners Andrew and Rae Noon. They are part of the young, open-minded generation (Rea's father also made wine) that is guided by one goal ... to produce the most uncompromising product possible. In 2000, there are 750 cases of the Eclipse, 260 of the Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, and 350 of the Shiraz Reserve, all three staggeringly great efforts from a vintage that, on paper, should not have produced wines this prodigious. Interestingly, I had a chance to taste the Noon offerings opened in my presence against bottles opened twenty-four and seventy-two hours earlier. Remarkably, there was not much difference. Even from bottles that had been opened for three days, the wines were still exhibiting incredible amounts of fruit as well as concentration. This always indicates the potential for longevity. Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283