Saltram No 1 2002 Barossa Shiraz Sept 05

 

Sealed in Stelvin; and whilst show awards normally don't impress me, when you see 8 gold medals from major shows, including one from the NWS, and 3 trophies from the Perth show, the awards are no accident. The bouquet is intensely black, rich and ripe; a touch of pepper, blackberry, Barossa chocolate and smoky vanillin oak. One sip and the old taste buds stand to attention faster than a Grenadier Guard. It maintains the precision of a Grenadier Guard as it sits beautifully, and completely fills the mouth with concentrated, intense flavours that belies its ample-weight, finishing with wonderful persistence and length. Its intensely (but perfectly) ripe, holding a terrific balance between savoury and sweet flavours, showing blackberry, smoky oak, dark chocolate and spice. Precision winemaking at play here; this is the best young No 1 I have tried and whilst the oak is noticeable, they have backed off on the oak regime and the wine is better for it. Tannins are very fine, the fruit deep and intense. Rated as Excellent with *** for value; although this is scrumptious now, it will get better - a lot better. It's a class act!