97 pts – Tyson Stelzer
100% Shiraz from the Seppelt Great Western Vineyard; aged 8 years on lees; Disgorged 16/11/16; Dosage 23g/L; Oak seasoned 3000L vat
Seppelt has pioneered Great Western sparkling shiraz since the 1890s and I have been privileged to witness the stamina of great bottles from the 1950s and 1960s. Grand longevity is the key to this style, and even on release at a decade of age (eight years of which were spent on lees) the fruit of the Seppelt Great Western vineyard itself demands a long time yet to fully blossom.
Enticingly poised, effortless, medium-bodied black cherry liqueur, black plum and blackberry fruit are here aplenty, framed in high cocoa dark chocolate, but the real distinction of this cuvée lies in its impeccably mineral, powder-fine tannins. Such enduring structure would crush the spirit of any mere mortal cuvée, but here it is neither confronting nor dominating propelling a thrilling finish that reverberates long with cherry liqueur and dark chocolate. After more than 120 years, this remains the pinnacle of Australian sparkling, and it will outlive all others. Drink 2027-2047.
Product/Service Sold Out | Yes |
---|---|
En Primeur | No |
New Arrivals | No |
Wine Type | Champagne/Sparkling |
Wine Style | Traditional |
Country | Australia |
Region | Grampians |
Varietals | Shiraz |
Vintage | 2007 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Wine Points | 97 |