By Josh Raynolds
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Jul/Aug 07
"Inky violet. Outrageously scented nose combines pungent floral, spice and mineral tones with kirsch, blackcurrant and blueberry aromas. Surprisingly zesty in the mouth, with vibrant red, black and blue fruit flavors sharpened by peppery minerality and sweetened by hints of floral pastille and mocha. There's energy and cut here that reminded me of cabernet more than shiraz. The incisive finish features a dark berry skin tone and a bright jolt of cracked pepper. Can you call it a finish when it doesn't stop? Twelftree says that his goal here was to make a 15-to-20-year wine. 95 points."

"Has the explosive impact of the late Maria Callas, jam-packed with juicy black fruits and the hot breath of alcohol; take it on her/its terms, or not at all. 15.4º alc. Rating 94 Drink 2029 $125 Date Tasted Feb 08." James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion.

"The 2005 Shiraz “Ares” is a glass-coating opaque purple. The nose delivers tar, scorched earth, saddle leather, blueberry, and a hint of chocolate. Opulent, layered, and intensely flavored, it has excellent integration of oak, tannin, and acidity and enough hidden structure to evolve for up to a decade. Drink this tasty Shiraz through 2025." 95 pts, Jay Miller, Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, Oct. 2007.