This 5th release from Balthazar vineyard epitomises my "modern" take on classic Barossa Shiraz. Pure expression of varietal character supported, not dominated, by premium oak and providing a pleasurable, spicy, complex and lasting experience on the palate.
A wine to enjoy now and with greater potential for future enjoyment with cellaring."
Anita Bowen, Vignorenne.
AWARDS
2008 National Wine Show of Australia
2005 BALTHAZAR BAROSSA SHIRAZ JUDGED AUSTRALIA’S BEST
Click here to read more about the award
VITI
Excellent growing season with consistently good winter/spring rains, followed by perfect dry and mild ripening conditions with minimal rain.
VINI
Balthazar Shiraz grapes were harvested the third week of March 2005, from both the HILL and HOUSE blocks. The Hill block grapes provide great natural acid and structure to complement the vibrancy of the House block fruit.
Fermentation occurred over 8 days with minimal temperature control, in small, open-top stainless steel fermenters, with twice-daily pumping over to gently extract colour and flavour.
Transferred to predominantly French, with some American oak hogsheads, Balthazar 2005 was given 20 months maturation in barrel before bottling on 29th November 2006. Closure: Procork
VINO
Colour: Dense Red
Nose: Rich, ripe berry fruits with peppery spice
Palate: Concentrated plum and blackberry fruits with hints of licorice;fine, firm tannins with layers of spicey complexity ending with a very long finish.
Analysis: pH: 3.38, Alcohol: 14.5%, pH: 3.38, Ta: 7.54, RS: 4 g/L
Cellar: 2020
Shiraz 2005 Full of life and movement, juicy plum, blackberry and licorice fruit; good oak and tannins; long finish
95 points – James Halliday