Peter Lehmann 'The Seven Surveys' 1999

[Mahmoud Ali]

1999 Peter Lehmann 'The Seven Surveys' Grenache-Shiraz-Mourvedre, Barossa Valley (14%)

I haven't had one of these in quite sometime but knew I had a bottle or two somewhere but did not realise how old mine were till I came across it a couple of weeks ago. For a lower to middling wine in the Lehmann range I was sure 21 years was more than enough time to see if this could show something with age.

Lehmann SevenSurveys 1999.jpg

My expectation was that it would be a light affair, a GSM blend of some age, with plenty of tertiary notes and perhaps being a little past its prime. However it was something entirely different. The Grenache and Shiraz has gone missing, leaving behind an almost entirely Mourvedre-led wine. The nose was black-fruited, dark cherry notes mingling with inky, minerals and herbs. The palate was similarly structured, black cherry and ink, mineral edged and almost hard, with herbs and garrigue on the finish. This was very satisfying and almost glugable were it not for the serious attention it demanded.This was completely unexpected and i have to say I am delighted with the outcome. The second bottle will get to live a little bit longer.

This is magical stuff. Kudos to whoever made it.

Cheers ............................. Mahmoud.