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Wine Spectator Online    Wine Spectator Forums  Hop To Forum Categories  Tasting Notes    Tn: 1999 Eden Valley "Old Butts" Shiraz
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Initially bought this about year and a half ago because of the name and recommendation at Wine Library. Bought a couple more shortly after trying it and have been cellaring them since. For some reason this wine is still available in WL for $16 after discount. The first thing I notice about this one is the low alcohol content compared to most Shiraz 12.5%. I know 99 was not a great vintage so maybe the grapes didn't fully ripen. This less ripe situation is evident on the nose and palate but is something I didn't find unpleasant rather found it different. There are definite Cigar box aromas as well as wild cherry and some earthy barnyardy elements initially however the barnyard ble off after about an hour. The flavor on this one initially had some definite tobacco, dried herbs and mint flavors with some cherry flavors behind them finishing moderately with decent tannins. As the wine opened in the glass the fruit begins to come out and the herbal flavors subside. I will finish the bottle tonight or tomorrow and will see how it tastes. I probably will not buy anymore but rather will hold my remaining bottle for a few years as an experiment to the aging potential of this style shiraz. I think it will mellow into a subtle fairyl complex aged wine, but well see. This is a very different type of wine for me as I usually go for the fruit in your face style and maybe that is what I find appealing is the difference. I would give this 89pts. Anyone else have any opinions on this one or this style of Shiraz?
 
Posts: 190 | Location: Metuchen,NJ | Registered: Jan 28, 2002Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
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Wine Spectator Online    Wine Spectator Forums  Hop To Forum Categories  Tasting Notes    Tn: 1999 Eden Valley "Old Butts" Shiraz

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