2006 Giaconda Warner Vineyard Shiraz, Beechworth, Victoria

Somehow spared from the carnage, Rick Kinzbrunner's 2009 crop had to endure unprecedented heat-stroke; a small-price to pay perhaps. 2006 was a warm one too, though not drought-affected as '07; his thirteen year old Warner Vineyard repaying Rick's diligence with a punchy tapenade and smoky black fruit gem. The Mediterranean feel is continued on the palate, bejewelled with crunchy yet beautifully woven black olive fruit, still very primary and young, aided by the vineyards 500 metre elevation.

Aged for 24 months in 60% new French barriques, Rick's wines remain among Australia's finest. A bit of a mouthful now, this wine would benefit from being drunk between 2010 & 2020, along with some hare or deer. (David Berry Green, BBR Buyer)

The 2006 Warner Vineyard Shiraz contains 1.5% Roussanne. Fermented with native yeasts, it was aged for two years in 60% new oak and bottled without fining or filtration. Opaque purple-colored, the enticing nose reveals notes of wood smoke, meat, spice box, leather, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. On the palate it exhibits an elegant personality, layers of spicy fruit, succulent flavors, and a pure finish. Give it 2-3 years and drink it through 2021.
(Jay Miller - Wine Advocate - Feb-2009)