Chateau Reynella McLaren Vale Basket Pressed Shiraz, 1994

Due to considerable crusty sediment and a crumbly cork, this wine had to be decanted carefully, but the McLaren Vale Shiraz that emerged was well worth the effort. It's still a deep, brilliant hue. Lively Australian Shiraz aromas are apparent even as the wine is being decanted and poured: mint, eucalyptus, blackberry--smells young. This Shiraz has seen plenty of new American oak, but it's become integrated by now and the oak is all part of the Australian tradition. On the palate, I find a supple McLaren Vale mid-palate and a long fruit-oriented finish. Tannins are very fine and they frame the fruit rather than dominate it. A lovely mature McLaren Vale Shiraz--wish I had more.