TN: Capel Vale Whispering Hill Shiraz 2008

[Waiters Friend]

After opening the CV 2008 Scholar earlier tonight (http://forum.m.auswine.com.au/forum3/viewto ... =1&t=15907) , we decided to follow it up with the same vintage of their flagship Shiraz - from the Whispering Hill vineyard near Mount Barker in W.A.'s Great Southern region. This vineyard has been a source of fabulous shiraz and Riesling for many years now.

Deep purple in colour, with a little red at the rim. Lots of dark plums on the nose, with vanilla pods / custard, milk chocolate, and a little black pepper and spices (possibly cardamom and clove). The palate is seamless, with totally integrated drying tannins, dense fruit and chocolate over supporting acid, leading to a very long finish. It's very well balanced, and not showing the 14.5% alcohol at all.

At 10 years old, possibly at its peak, but should hold for at least another 5 years. Excellent wine.

Cheers
Allan

[Waiters Friend]

Nearly five years on from my last TN on this wine, it has matured further. Similar colour, and still has a spicy nose, although the fruit has diminished somewhat. There's now some licorice in the mix (both nose and palate) and the tannins have taken a back seat. Vanilla has been replaced by a little leather. It's still not showing the alcohol at all, and finishes long (and a little softer).

Not quite as good as it was 5 years ago, but people might say that about me, too Still enjoyable, but I should look at the couple of remaining bottles soon.

Cheers
Allan