Ranked #36 of 82 2009 Shiraz from McLaren Vale
89/100
3.5 Stars
Huon Hooke
Very dark colour, blackish tints. Slightly dull, overripe, stale aroma, lacking somewhat in fruit and charm. Undoubtedly concentrated, but it's chewy and the tannins are drying and assertive. Very tannic and needs more time.
Tasted: 06/07/2011
Drink: 2012 to 2020
92 Points Robert Parker
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2009 The Chosen Road Block Shiraz offers a complex, spiced / earthy nose of warm blackberries, kirsch, mulberries, baking spices and underbrush with touches of chocolate and black truffle. Full bodied and richly fruited with spiced black berry flavors, it has firm structure of medium to high level grainy tannins and crisp acidity. The finish is long with the earthy / savory nuances coming through. Approachable now, it should drink well to 2020+.
Source: Robert Parker (Robert Parker Wine Advocate) by Lisa Perrotti-Brown. December, 2011
95 Points James Halliday
Scarce Earth has given McLaren Vale’s most sensitive winemaker the courage to harvest even earlier. A brittle shell of firm, finely textured tannins encases restrained cherry and plum fruit and lifted violet perfume. Masterfully crafted, a wine of epic length, line and control. The longest lived wine in the House, it will take many years to uncoil. Drink 2021 - 2031.
Source: James Halliday. May, 2011
94 Points James Halliday
Vivid purple hue; simply loaded with attractive spiced black fruits, fruitcake and highlighted by red fruit notes; the palate is warm and inviting, yet retains freshness and vitality as the ample tannins provide structure for the fruit; long, engaging, warm and friendly. Drink to 2020.
Source: James Halliday. December, 2010
95 Points Tyson Stelzer
Scarce Earth has given McLaren Vale’s most sensitive winemaker the courage to harvest even earlier. A brittle shell of firm, finely textured tannins encases restrained cherry and plum fruit and lifted violet perfume. Masterfully crafted, a wine of epic length, line and control. The longest lived wine in the House, it will take many years to uncoil. Drink 2021 - 2031.
Source: Tyson Stelzer. May, 2011