Bethany LE Reserve Eden Valley Shiraz 2020

LE does not stand for Limited Edition as one might expect (including ‘Reserve’ in the name might then have been a little bit of overkill), but rather Lawrence and Edna Schrapel, fourth generation of the family, who for over half a century were the custodians of the Bethany Vineyard. The grapes are sourced from a single vineyard in the Flaxman Valley subregion of the Eden Valley, matured in French oak and under cork. Purple/magenta, the nose is an intriguing mix of aromas. Redcurrants, spices, cloves, rose petals, bacon fat, cocoa powder, plums and aniseed. A gorgeously slippery and sleek palate. A fine line of acidity, great length with the intensity maintained throughout, and exemplary balance. More chocolate emerges on the palate which is utterly delicious. Drink over the next fifteen to twenty years.