2002 Reiver Shiraz, Mitolo, Barossa Valley
The Reiver shows different qualities to Mitolo's McLaren Vale wines. Produced from a parcel of unirrigated vines with an average age of sixty years, this is suitably deep in the glass. Bold aromas of spice-laden berry fruit emerge. On the palate there is a terrific exuberance, rich, fleshy dark plum and creamy vanilla with peppery notes as well as a liquorice-like sweetness. Ripe and intense this may be, but it remains remarkably fresh and poised.