97 Points James Halliday
Purple-crimson; much better clarity than the Malbec; strong black berry and licorice aromas lead directly into a firm, though medium-bodied, palate; has the energy, thrust and length missing from the Malbec, yet is exceptionally elegant, reflecting its low alcohol. Is one of those rare wines which get better sip by sip (or mouthful). Postscript: I wrote those words before I referred back to the identical comment made about the '05 Shiraz. Drink to 2026.
Source: James Halliday. April, 2009
The Wendouree Shiraz is one of only 17 wines in Australia ranked as "Exceptional" in the Langton's Classification V. These are the most highly sought-after and prized Australian wines on the market.
The Clare Valley Wendouree vineyards are among the oldest in the country. A number of the Shiraz vines still in production were originally planted by Alfred Percy Birks in 1893. These low-yielding tortured looking, serpentine vines produce low yielding small berries with thick skin and very high seed content.
"An iron first in a velvet glove best describes these extraordinary wines" according to James Halliday, author of the Australian Wine Companion 2011.
Halliday is referring to the wines formidable structure created by buoyant fruit power superbly balanced by muscular, tightly knit tannins and a minerally, earthy profile.
Langton's rates the 2006 Shiraz as one of the best vintages.