Coldstream Hills 1999 Limited Release Shiraz Oct 03 sells for $35 at cellar door. Considering that James Halliday loves clean wines and is a consultant to this winery it was quite surprising to find this wine has a bit of a dirty aroma but it’s not offensive and is supported by rich milk chocolate and briary brambly notes. Tannins are smooth, with balanced refreshing acid, the fruit is pure, distinct and persistent but the taste has a very unusual flavour profile; “funky” with chocolate and mushroom. It’s ample in weight, with firm consistency and well developed complexity; the construction is excellent with good intensity and a lingering finish. Rated as Recommended with ** for value the rating should improve as the wine matures after 2006.