Introducing a benchmark vintage for one of the Barossa’s long-lived flagships. This is a magnificent, show-stopping wine of great structure and poise, with more flesh and depth than the 2004 that preceded it. At eight year of age it retains an amazingly vibrant purple hue. The palate is remarkably poised, characterised by brilliant definition of black plums, black cherries and blackcurrants, with capsicum, liquorice and a well-gauged dose of dark chocolate. Cabernet takes control of the finish in wonderfully fine, beautifully structured tannins. Pending a good cork (fingers crossed), it demands at least another decade yet, and preferably two. For the record, 56% northern Eden Valley cabernet, 22% Bethany Barossa Valley cabernet and 22% Light Pass Barossa Valley shiraz, matured for 22 months in 47% new French, Hungarian and American oak barrels. $109 at Dan Murphy’s.