The Auswine Forum

Thought I'd draw on the collective wisdom of the forum and seek some advice for red to open with xmas dinner - will be having filet mignon with an array of roasted vegies and stuff like that. I've got limited number of bottles of certain things stashed away but because I don't buy a whole lot of the better stuff due to budget, would like to know how any of the following are travelling -

1993 St Hallett Old Block
1994 St Hallet Old Block

1993 Jim Barry McRae Wood Shiraz
1994 Jim Barry McRae Wood Shiraz

2001 Brokenwood Graveyard Shiraz

1995 Dalwhinnie Shiraz

1992, 1994, 1997 Dalwhinnie Cabernet

1990 Cape Mentelle Cabernet

1990 Yarra Yering Dry Red #1

think that'll do - cheers

John B

John, had a 90 YY No.1 earlier this year and it was fully mature but excellent example of the YY style.

Had a 94 Old Block which was a bit disappointing so was unsure if it was the wine or just a lesser bottle (bloody corks!). Appreciate you trying that as I have a few more to get through.

Some nice wine in amongst that lot. Do you have to share with many others? I reckon this would determine what I opened

Thats a reasonable point Quizzmaster... only 3 or 4 of us I'd say - so that won't hurt too much

John B [/list]

Thanks for the info 707 ... might have a look at the 1990 YY - and will have a look at the Old Block and see what it's doing.

Oh yeah - I for got before but I've also got 93 and 94 Rockford Basket Press, as well as some 92 Rockford Cab Sav.

Guess Im just after what I should try first but I have at least two starters now.

Cheers - John B

i reckon ten years is a fair hike for most australian vino's.
there is nothing worse than opening a bottle of wine and immediately realizing you should have cracked it 3-5 years earlier because its become the equivalent of an aging rock music lothario[ie: rod stewart!]...boring.

i'd definetly crack the 93' and '94 sooner rather than later iiwy.
i think St. Hallets make lovely wines. even the Game Keepers
Reserves[hmmm] are simple well made quaffers. i was amazed how well a 93' GKR drank that i'd forgotten about and cracked in late '98, half expecting mouthwash. i always judge a big winery by how well made their cheaper market pleasing wines are made. i've had some pleasant surprises over the years.

John, no rush on the Rocky BPs although the Cabernet from a lesser year in 92 should probably be consumed soon.

Don't forget to let us know how you get on with them.