2008 Best's Great Western Bin 0 Shiraz

The nomenclature “Bin No. 0 Shiraz” has always been somewhat of a mystery. Best’s early records indicate that the numbering system was developed by local General Merchants who used it as a means of classifying the quality of the wine. Bin No. O being of the highest quality was sold for around 2 shillings a bottle in 1900, No. 1 slightly less and finally No. 5 was the rough stuff for weary workers looking for a cheap palliative.

An outstanding Bin 0, one of the best in recent memory.
Opaque, black crimson purple colour with very deep, crimson purple hue. The nose is a touch reserved upon first approach, with aromas of blackberry, blackpepper, liquorice, dark plum and a meaty earth like overlay, slowly evolving to deliver a perfumed sniff. The palate balances richness and power against elegance and refinement, displaying opulent flavours of blackberry, dark plum and liquorice, followed by some spicy blackpepper and dried meat characters. Exceptional length with super fine grained, perfectly integrated tannins and very long aftertaste of blackberry, liquorice and spice.
Alc 14.5%