Paxton Vineyards Shiraz 2001 ($36)

Must rank among the best shiraz released this year, a splendid example of how to maximise the potential of prime McLaren Vale grapes without going overboard into the realms of jam and stewed fruit.

Lovely expressive nose of pure Shiraz with French oak hints, aromatic raspberry plum and blackberry fruit mingle with hints of chocolate and mint … all class and style, no over the top unbalanced bruiser this one, but very sophisticated wine making with some very smart fruit. The palate does not disappoint, being medium bodied in the positive sense, no lack of flavour here, just not jammy or over extracted. The berry, plum and cherry fruit carries the palate with chocolate and hints of regional earth peeping through, creating a delightful mouthful of wine. The wine has a delightful tannin structure, with ultra fine and ripe tannins running the length of the palate, creating a seamless quality and offering extended cellaring potential.

I have to agree with Gavin's summation of this wine, it was one of the best Mclaren Vale wines I tried during my trip last May. Mine is already in the cellar.