Ranked #1 of 24 2012 Shiraz from Coonawarra
97/100
5 Stars
Bob Campbell
Elegant and powerful Shiraz, with the sort of energy and cracked black pepper flavours that could easily be mistaken for Gimblett Gravells rather than Coonwarra. The difference is density, which this wine has in spades, and a savoury complexity rarely found in Hawke’s Bay reds. Beautifully structured Shiraz with an extremely lengthy finish. Much more sensitive use of oak than earlier vintages.
Tasted: 12/06/2015
Drink: 2015 to 2027
97 Points James Halliday
Marries elegance with depth and power, elegance controlling the union. Whereas oak is often very obvious in young Michael releases, here it is just a veneer for the supple plum, black cherry and blackberry fruits, the tannins likewise perfectly pitched. Coonawarra didn't miss out on the great '12 vintage. Drink to 2052.
Source: James Halliday.