Tim Adams Schaefer Shiraz 2015
- 95
- $40
- Drink by: 2021 - 2030
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The opportunity to fill the cellar with mature wine at bargain prices is not something to be ignored. There are not many new releases from as far back as 2015 (both the current Hill of Grace and Grange are 2016), and precious few at just $40. So jump on board.
The Schaefer Shiraz reflects a longstanding link between two families, with Tim Adams the current vineyard custodian. They felt they had something, certain parcels within the vineyard, which qualified as unique and decided to bottle them separately. A percentage of whole berries was also included. The must was fermented for seven days and then given another five days soaking prior to pressing. Pressings were included in the blend. 24 months in new French oak, before blending and then a further stint in tank.
The immediate impression is of a wine with such a gorgeous aroma. The colour is deep red with a crimson rim, but I am betting you won’t even notice that once you get a whiff from the glass. Plums, a hint of dark chocolate, vanilla, tobacco leaf and dark berries. And all this continues on the palate. Good length and obvious complexity here. Silky tannins and a supple texture. Some notes of leather and cloves on the finish. Although it has plenty of time under its belt already, this is still on the way up. Be in no hurry. There is often a wine on the tasting bench which absolutely insists it then be put aside for dinner. Today, this was it. And did I mention such stunning value?
Ken was born and bred in Brisbane, Queensland. He had a non-trendy, perfectly happy childhood, in a family convinced alcohol meant instant condemnation to Hades. But a break fishing on the Great Barrier Reef, and some good wine, started a serious obsession that eventually took over. It did not stop Ken being chastised later for drinking Pol champagne, disgusted he’d drink anything made by a Cambodian dictator. Now, Ken mostly writes on wine, champagne and spirits for various newspapers, magazines and books, but is perhaps best known for his work in The Courier Mail. He also has a little sideline writing on cigars, fishing, travel and food. When not writing, fly-fishing for trout in NZ or bonefish on the flats of Cuba, travelling or smoking cigars, he is no doubt following a variety of sporting teams – the occasionally glorious Queensland Reds rugby, the dysfunctional Washington Redskins, the dodgy Arsenal and especially revels in the world restored to its proper axis with the return of the Ashes to their rightful home.
