Seppelt 2001 Chalambar Shiraz Nov 04

This wine arrived as a freebie together with a replacement for a corked bottle of (other) Seppelt wine, a nice touch. At first sniff, the nose seem fruit driven a little simple but a second sniff and one realises how deceptive and incorrect that assessment would be because there is far more to this wine than first meets the nose. Tilt the glass a few degrees in any direction and the primary scent changes.

The flavour in this wine is terrific, youthful and vibrant; the fruit seems like it is in control and driving the wine but on the palate, the oak is noticeable but well matched to the level of fruit. Ample-weight, the smooth, very-fine drying tannins (much of it oak derived) will ensure the wine lasts for some years. Moorish, intense chocolate, plum, black cherry, and a hint of mint, amongst other things produces harmonious element and as much as it has crowd pleasing qualities, it is better than that and finishes long with terrific persistence.  Drinking well now, it should hold and possibly improve for some years and is rated as Highly Recommended with ***** for value, this is sensational value.