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Sam Kim, Wine Orbit – 96 Points
Combining power and sophistication, the wine shows black/blueberry, violet, toasty oak and mixed spice aromas on the nose, followed by a concentrated palate offering opulence with sensually appealing mouthfeel. Mouthfilling and delicious with a sustained vigorous finish. At its best: now to 2039.
Wine Showcase – 95 Points
Ken Gargett, Wine Pilot – 92 Points
William Pile was a famous British shipbuilder, responsible for the City of Adelaide, a well-known clipper which was built in 1864 and made 23 return voyages between London and Adelaide. Even more importantly, the vines here average more than half a century in age, with two thirds sourced from the Barossa Valley and the remaining third from the Eden Valley. A 12 day fermentation and then maturation in a range of oak – French barriques and hogsheads and American octaves – for a period just short of two years. 30% of the French barriques and hogsheads were new. Inky dark maroon, the nose exhibits notes of plums, mulberries, black fruits, coffee grinds, licorice and soy. A savoury style, there is good length evident with firm tannins. A fine line of acidity runs the length. Good concentration. Enjoy this over the next eight to ten years.