Cape Barren Rare Bird McLaren Vale Shiraz 2019 [WO 97]

It is immediately provocative with heady fragrance of blackberry, toasted spice, dried flower, mocha and cedar characters on the nose. The palate is concentrated and deeply flavoured with velvety texture combined with seamlessly infused tannins, finishing superbly long and engaging. It’s symphonic and sumptuous with staggering power, while remaining gorgeously balanced and alluring. At its best: now to 2045. $150. Rating: 97 Points; Wine Orbit.

The elegance and refinement of this excellent McLaren Vale Shiraz conceals its power and driving intensity. Waves of dark fruit cascade with blackberry plum and dark chocolate, livened with a decent sprinkle of spices. Structured and purposeful through to the finish. Date: June 2024; Price: $150; Drink: 2024-2039; Rating: 94 Points; Ray Jordan.

Cape Barren Wines first vintage was in 1999, and the philosophy has and always will be to source the very highest quality of grapes, from regions most suited to each variety, and then craft exceptional world class wines of outstanding value. Summers in McLaren Vale are often accompanied by the arrival of magnificent Cape Barren Geese. These rare and striking birds, once feared near extinction, are the inspiration for the name.