Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 95
One of this estate’s flagship wines, the 2003 The Dead Arm Shiraz appears to be better than the 2002. A deeper, richer, fuller-bodied offering that spent time in equal parts French and American oak, it possesses an opaque purple color, great intensity, and a fabulously sweet nose of blackberries, cassis, asphalt, earth, and oak. Powerful, super-concentrated, and obviously fashioned from low yields and old vines, this is a classic McLaren Vale old vine Shiraz that should age nicely for 15+ years. Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552
Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020
Vinous 88
Bright medium ruby. Ripe plum and mulberry aromas are a bit sullen, requiring aeration to reveal complicating notes of espresso, licorice and tar. Rich and thick, with roasted cherry and dark chocolate flavors; lacks a sense of energy. Dense, ripe and weighty on the finish but seems reluctant to give up much in the way of nuance today.
