Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz 2018

Deep, dark red-purple colour. The bouquet showing sweet red and black licorice, mocha and plum conserve aromas, sweet squishy blackberry as well, the oak evident but well harmonised even at this tender age. The palate is very full-bodied, powerful, concentrated and penetrating. Mocha and bitter dark chocolate on the palate, which is tremendously intense and long. A cracking wine with a big future. (Vines planted in 1893, so 125 old this vintage. 90% new oak). Drink date: 2022-2041. Score – 97. (Huon Hooke, therealreview.com, April 28, 2021)