1999 Vasse Felix Shiraz (Margaret River)
Still dark red. A nose of tarry, meaty spice, with some of that bacon fat that RP talks about. It’s very intense and powerful, and even rather hints at the alcohol that is to come. The palate is full and rich – tannins have softened somewhat, so they’re not overpowering at all. I wouldn’t describe them as particularly fine, though. I do find the warmth of the alcohol (14.3) quite prominent. As the wine opens in the glass, a little more red fruit quality emerges – some rich stewed blackberries, and the meaty characteristics dissipate. Notwithstanding the heat, the balance across the palate is pretty good. The last glassful from the undecanted bottle (1st half is back in the fridge in stoppered 375ml bottle) yields more than a teaspoon of tartaric acid crystals, which makes me wonder about a heavy hand in the winery…
Cheers,
Graeme
