Orlando Centenary Hill 1997 Shiraz – April 03

Sedate but full on inky black nose showing spice, prunes and big hit of menthol.

An ample weight wine with fine grained tannins that are still a bit chewy, youthful acid that’s in balance and deeply seated fruit that’s intense without showing any signs of being heavy or extracted.

Very different to the previous vintages of this wine which all showed huge amounts of oak and this wine seems a lot lighter in weight too. By comparison to previous vintages it’s restrained and elegant. What is not restrained or elegant is the power of savoury prune and aniseed flavours with hints of chocolate and spice that fill the mouth and linger for ages. It’s a good wine and in keeping with the vintage conditions. Rated as Highly Recommended with *** for Value it’s ready to drink now.