2004 Clarendon Hills Astralis Syrah Magnum (1500ml)

Was $1200, Now $850

This is a restrained, brooding Astralis. Opaque black purple colour with purple hue.  The nose is perfumed with a degree of restraint, only gradually yielding its splendour.  Aroma of liquorice allsorts, blackberry and violet infusions.  The palate is again refined and tight, showing very good complexity but without the explosive power and super concentration that the 2003 delivered.  Flavours of plum, cherry and stewed fruit emerge.  Very fine grained tannins, well balanced to the fruit.  Very long aftertaste of plum, black cherry and stewed fruit.
Cellar 10-15 years (2016-2021)
Alc/Vol: 14.5%

Robert Parkers Review:
Clarendon Hills' flagship Syrah is the 800-case cuvee of 2004 Syrah Astralis Vineyard. One of Australia's most prodigious offerings, Astralis is a 20-30-year wine (some of the early vintages, such as 1996, are still babies in their evolutionary progression). Produced from 75-year-old Syrah vines, it coats the mouth with a viscous texture, but never comes across as heavy or over the top. An opaque purple color is followed by an extraordinary nose of graphite, roasted meat, new saddle leather, truffles, violets, and blackberries. Full-bodied with superb purity, great definition, and a refreshing, zesty acidity that buttresses its enormous weight and richness, it is a tour de force in winemaking from Roman Bratasiuk. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2030+
96-98 Points
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #161 (Oct 2005)