Tatachilla Foundation Shiraz 1999 (review)

88 points - v.good but without a distinctive style.

From McLaren Vale, South Australia. 14%

In 2002 this wine won the "great Australian Shiraz challenge" and James Halliday rated it 96 points!

So it is amazing that I can still buy it and under A$40 (ie no price rise). This winery has a reputation of preducing black/purple wines, super charged, and super clean - wine makers' wines that scoop awards. Six years after vintage, which is a near perfect time to start drinking quality Australian shiraz, this is a dark red, well balanced though with just noticeable addded acidity.

The interesting thing is that the promise of youth hasn't really paid off. Flavour has not built with (a small amount of) time. It is a good but restrained/balanced wine. Without great complexity, a very good quality version of commercial wine.