Tasted near a “Grange“, this wine was far from humbled.  In fact, it played deep into the final quarter and dollar for dollar, is probably the sensible choice.  A deep ruby in colour, the 2005 “Basket Press” has aromatics of baked plum, dried green herbs, green tinned peppercorn, currants, cedar wood and non-bretty leather.  On the palate, there’s a lot going on.  Vanilla, plums, ripe blackberry, currant and mulberry are identifiable and the length is long.  Overall, it’s difficult to call this wine as anything other than outstanding due to its balance, long length and its fruit power.  There is also some complexity in its fruit expression which, ever so slightly, is starting to relax.  Drink over the next 10 years.   Outstanding

Abv: 14.5%
Price: $130+
Vendors: Check http://www.wine-searcher.com/
Website: http://www.rockfordwines.com.au
Tasted: 2013
Subscribe: Subscribe to benefit from regular, considered and independent wine reviews from Grape Observer. Please enter your email address in the subscription icon on the right of screen to receive updates by email.