"The 1997 Shiraz Reserve conceals its nearly 15% alcohol behind a cascade of incredibly rich, concentrated fruit. This wine sees only new American oak. It boasts an opaque black/purple color in addition to knock-out aromas of melted asphalt, blackberries, truffles, and licorice. Cherry jam notes also emerge in the flavors. Unctuously-textured, incredibly ripe, pure, and full-bodied, this wine would make even Australia's Grange look wimpish if tasted side by side. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2025. Celestial black currants intermixed with coffee, licorice, Asian spices, and pain grille notes are more reminiscent of a blockbuster vintage of Mouton-Rothschild than what I would expect from a Shiraz/Cabernets blend." Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, April 1999

"Dense, inky and youthful; big, rich and velvety. Aromas of chocolate and prunes with some licorice/anise and spice. Very fleshy, sweet concentrated fruit with dense tannins and great length. "Muscular", said one judge - and certainly not for the faint-hearted." Winestate Magazine