Charles Melton Barossa Shiraz 2002 (review)

88 points

Barossa Valley, South Australia

Charles Melton is Barossa aristocracy, ie one of the top boutique producers that really came into their own after silly government schemes in the 1980s to pull up old vines. In a 'counter revolution' a few winemakers proudly exhibited their old vine wines and rapidly captured the public (and wine critics) hearts.

Not cheap but not exorbitent (given its status) either, and bottled with screw cap - two attractive features.

This is fine and flavoursome, but I still suspect some added acidity, in spite of the wonderfully cool vintage. Restrained, concentrated, best with food. Lacks the intensity, attack and complexity of some of the new wave of Barossa producers, and not as lucious as some older competitors.

Very good, but not quite as exciting, or as competitive, as this wine could be.