2002 Gibson's Australian Old Vine Collection Barossa Shiraz

Rob Gibson is a viticulturalist with a very investigative mind. He has no argument that quality winemaking starts in the vineyard, however in order to maximise the end flavour profiles of a wine, Gibson has come to the realization that he must draw upon a diverse range of fields from horticulture and soil science, to meteorology and climatology. In fact, Gibson’s obsession with terroir leads him burrowing under vines like an old wombat in order to arrive at a deeper understanding of each Old Vines site (see tasting notes on the 2002 Gibson’s Barossa Vale Shiraz.)
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a very dark brick red hue. The nose sings with heady aromas of liquorice, dark plum and mocha followed by vanillin oak, hints of earth and spice. Rich and satiny in texture the palate is flooded with mouthfilling flavours of liquorice, ripe luscious blackberries, dark plum and flashes of dark chocolate over earthy vanillin oak, traces of leather and spice. Excellent power and depth with an opulent yet refined mouthfeel and silky smooth tannins. Long plush aftertaste of dark plums, liquorice, blackberries, vanillin oak, subtle dark chocolate, earthy leather and spice.
Alc 15%

Originally Tasted August 2004: This extraordinary wine continues to produce exceptional elegance and refinement. The grapes are sourced from Australia’s oldest surviving Shiraz plantings which date back to the 1850’s with total production a mere three hundred cases. A rare piece of history and wonderful vinous experience.Totally opaque black crimson colour, with black crimson hue. Superb nose of violets, followed by layers of vanilla, spice, liquorice allsorts and blackberries. The palate has both power and refinement. Flavours of liquorice allsorts, vanilla, spice and chocolate provide for an outstanding palate experience with excellent length and depth. Perfect balance, with fine grained tannins and exceptionally long aftertaste of violet infusions, liquorice, spice and vanilla. LIMITED STOCKS.
Alc./Vol.15%

Other Reviews....
Aged in 100% new oak (70% French and 30% American), the 2002 Shiraz Old Vine Collection is an amazing Shiraz produced from 92- to 139-year-old vines. Surprisingly, it possesses “only” 14+% alcohol. A deep saturated purple color is followed by aromas of espresso roast, white chocolate, pepper, blackberry liqueur, and melted asphalt. This is a youthful, primary red displaying an incredible wealth of fruit, magnificent glycerin as well as depth, and a monster finish of 70+ seconds. This stunning 2002 should hit its prime in 2-4 years, and last for 15 or more.
96 points
Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate #155