WTN: 2002 Mount Langi Ghiran Shiraz Mast Rare Reserve Block

2002 Mount Langi Ghiran Shiraz Mast Rare Reserve Block - Australia, Victoria (11/5/2008)
I popped this the night of the election. This is the story of the little Shiraz that could. I must commend Jon Rimmerman for this wine and the 2001 Bowen Estate Shiraz. Both wines have been, thankfully, unstereotypical for Shiraz. Both wines resemble Northern Rhone with the power and complexity of Cote Rotie and the rusticity and vigor of Cornas. The Mount Langhi shows notes of pepper, blueberry, animal, blood, roasted meats and herbs. It's graceful on the palate with a feeling of saturation without fatigue. Excellent balance and length. With air time, it begins to change somewhat by showing some dried fruit, slight raisin notes. It's a savory wine for sure and a superb deal. A great ringer to use in blind tastings.

I hate myself for being a day too late when Garagiste offered it out. I love Mt. Langi, and have heard nothing but great notes on this wine (even from people with very old world palates who normally would cringe at the mere thought of 'Shiraz').