The Auswine Forum

I'm going to buy an wine as a gift for my friend and I'm thinking about the Amon Ra. Which vintage, 2003 or 2004, do you think is better? and what is the current market price for these two?

From what I've heard, the 04 is more balanced and elegant while the 03 is the traditional "in your face" style for the American market. Of the two, the 03 is more rare.

The 04 was not rated in the big Australian review in the latest WA 161. Not sure what to make of that. Anyone have any insight into that ommission?

"The 2004 is a better wine than the 2003, filling every corner of the mouth with an exceptional array of spiced black fruits. Glistening and velvety, the finish goes on forever. 96 plus points" James Halliday, The Australian

Red Bigot wrote:"The 2004 is a better wine than the 2003, filling every corner of the mouth with an exceptional array of spiced black fruits. Glistening and velvety, the finish goes on forever. 96 plus points" James Halliday, The Australian

I would agree, purer, longer, more balanced.

2003 was hugely impressive, but very 'upfront'.

2004 will cellar well, and a better wine IMO also

See the following link from the Glaetzers (who also no doubt wondered what the hell had happened!) -

http://www.glaetzer.com/news/articles/9526.asp

"2004 Amon-ra, Barossa Valley
Please note - tasting notes not available yet.

Parker tasted the Amon-Ra 2004 along with the other wines from Ben & Colin, but his notes have been lost between his desk and the printers! He has apologised for this oversight, is re-tasting the wine this week and will publish notes on his web site. We will of course advise you of the notes as soon as we see them."

So I believe a 2004 Parker review is on it's way soon, for what it's worth. (well he IS the man for Bordeaux, not Oz IMHO).

The 2004 for me - on the Blacktongues form it's definitely Super Shiraz territory:

http://forum.auswine.com.au/viewtopic.php?t=4010

Cheers,
Ian