This is the first vintage of a new offering from Sue Hodder.It fully demonstates,the enormous viticultural efforts she,& Wynns have made.Not a hint of greeness. So,where did this up & comer originate??.Did it's 85% shiraz contribute to Wynns Michael??,or the very underated 'grey' label?? A best guess is the former,in most years. However this marriage must have [like so many!!] been a troubled one. Perhaps Johnson suffered from a lack of structure,or seasonal jamminess,or over-ripeness.Like so many second marriages,the new relationship is definitly a successfull,& more harmonious one!!.Whilst Johnson is the dominant partner,the cabernet spouse is clearly the elite selection from Wynns very underpriced 'Black Label'. In my view,the comparison between blends & marriage is an apt one. In any healthy parnership the result is greater than the sum of the two individuals.this is the case in point. The cabernet delivers structure,definition,length,& contrast,with a pleasing dry finish.It supplies a foundation & enhancement of Johnson's white pepper,spice,& fruit. Is this Coonawarra's best Shiraz-Cabernet blend?? Well no,the 2004 will surpass the 2003,but not for many years. The 2003 is far more approachable.Do I hear mention of Lindeman's Limestone Ridge?? Unfortunately that is a wine losing it's way in both a viticultural & marketing sense [sadly],it has always been a favorite of mine too. At under $40 Johnson's Block represents better value,[ & perhaps even better quality],than it's peers & competition. ie: Penfolds Bin 389,Lindemans L.Stone Ridge,& Yalumba Signature.At worst,it is an intimidating,& formidable new challenger. Cheers W.D.

• Rating: N/A (Average for all reviewers )
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