2005 MadFish Shiraz Tasting Notes

Red grapes in 2005 show the benefit of a warm; not hot, and relatively dry growing season with strong colour development, ripe flavour characteristics and mature tannin structure.
Shiraz from the Great Southern, Blackwood Valley and a small portion from the Margaret River in the South West of Western Australia were specially selected for the 2005 MadFish Shiraz. Fermented in open stainless steel tanks with twice daily pumpovers aiding fruit tannin development. Maturation in 1, 2 and 3 year old French oak for 12 months encouraged wine development and structural complexity. The objective was to produce an elegant Shiraz with complex aromas and characters and with texture and structure that would reward cellaring, the use of French oak instead of traditional American oak gives rise to a wine of greater sophistication.

A rich ruby red in colour with great density. Aromas of ripe plums and blackberries are complemented by underlying five-spice and subtle oak. A full bodied mid palate is driven by concentrated fruit flavours and a savoury texture which complements many foods. Soft, fine tannins and extended plum and chocolate characters give the 2005 MadFish Shiraz a great lingering finish.

Suited to current drinking the 2005 MadFish Shiraz will drink at its peak until 2010.