- Barossa Valley/Eden Valley, SA - $68-$90
- Cork
- 14.5%alc
The latest St Hallett promotional release proclaims; 'Quintessential Barossa.' There might not be a more apt term for the Old Block Shiraz, which I rate among the region's top half dozen or so wines. The 2006 Old Block combines 79% Barossa shiraz with 21% Eden Valley, grown from vines with a minimum age of 60 years.
A ripe nose of almost sweetly fruited expression announces red plum and blackcurrant overtones, with an emerging presence of meaty chocolate oak and leather providing further interest. Artfully made and measured, its medium-bodied palate drives in a silky smooth fashion, unloading a beautifully natural balance of complex, old vine Barossa shiraz flavours and smoky cedar/chocolate oak with finely powdered, sensuous tannins. It finishes fine, long and precise, with a lingering, fresh note of menthol imparted from its Eden Valley component.
ü+ Certainly at the more elegant, restrained and composed end of premium Barossa shiraz; the deliciously refined 2006 is the best Old Block for years. Drink to 2024.
95 points
Lovely wine. Much preferred this to the 2005, and it is arguably better than the 2004. St Hallet is a wonderful winery - lots of childhood memories going to the cellar door. I should pick up more of these!
ReplyDeleteCheers
RB