2005 Massena Shiraz The Eleventh Hour

Firm and focused, with dense tannins around a core of wild berry, licorice and mineral flavors. Finishes harmoniously, lasting well. Needs time to become more expressive. Shiraz.

Author: Harvey Steiman

From 60- to 100-year old vines that were saved from the bulldozer during the infamous Barossa |vine pull| (hence the name), the 2005 Shiraz 11th Hour was cropped at .5 tons of fruit per acre, and aged in 100% French oak, of which 5% was new. Sweet, pure aromas of blackberries, blueberries, crushed pepper, and flowers jump from the glass of this inky/purple-colored Shiraz. As one might expect from such tiny yields, it is a wine of great intensity, massive body, and tremendous purity, definition, and length. While still primary, it gives all the indications of being a modern day classic that should last and improve for 15-20 years.

Author: Robert Parker