2004 Marquis Philips Shiraz #9 McLaren Vale

(92 points) No Shiraz Integrity was made in 2004, so the superb 2004 Shiraz 9 includes the wine that would have been earmarked for that flamboyant cuvee. The rich, full-bodied, opulent Shiraz 9 boasts abundant amounts of concentrated blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with smoke, camphor, and tar notes. It is a powerful Shiraz (16% alcohol), so those looking for restraint and delicate European-styled reds should steer clear of this monster. It should drink well for at least a decade. Wine Advocate #161 Oct 2005