2001 Howard Park Leston Shiraz Tasting Notes

The 2001 grapegrowing season was as close to perfect as could be expected. A very dry 2000 winter left us with some of the lowest water supplies on record. The dry winter gave way to some early spring rains and then and almost completely rain free summer growing season. Weather conditions highly unfavourable for grain and pasture farmers were ideal for grapegrowers for whom rain during vintage is the enemy. Temperatures were warm without being too hot; yields were good without being excessive. It was a season in which the decision to pick was made according to the flavour and tannin development in the grape rather than the prospect of impending rain. Shiraz on the vine showed intense colour and flavour with mature tannin promising outstanding wine if we got it right in the winery. The grapes are harvested according to flavour with little regard for analytical data, fermentation occurs in open topped stainless steel tanks with highly aerative pumpovers that are integral in tannin development. At completion of fermentation the Shiraz is pressed off into French oak barriques of which about 60% are new, the balance being 1 year old. There was minimal fining and filtration performed.

Beautiful vibrant red of good clarity. The nose displays a complex mix of classic Margaret River ripe plums and chocolate fudge with background cedary oak. It is always a sign of a good wine when each time you smell the glass a different character emerges. The palate is rich and full flavoured with ripe fruit characters dominant. The hallmark of Margaret River Shiraz appears to be amazing mid palate fruit sweetness with soft tannins that belie the inherent power of the wine.