Amon-Ra Shiraz 2006

wa97-100we95ws91

BN#212046

Amon-Ra

Now in it's 6th release, the 2006 Amon-Ra shows the hallmark richness of the previous vintages yet takes the aromatic expression to another level. The slower ripening experienced in our Shiraz created parcels of fruit with huge intensity and perfume without any of the hot, jammy characteristics that can become evident with exposed fruit - a character we avoid in all of our wines at all costs. The key to Amon Ra is balancing the extraction rather than maximizing it. The fruit has such expression that we aim to preserve the characteristics of the vineyard rather than dominate them. The similarity has to be drawn between the 04 and 05 wines, the 06 showing the freshness and refinement of the 04 release with the tannin structure and ageability of the 05. It is certainly one of our most favoured releases to this point.

Wine Advocate

Amon-Ra has become one of Australia’s icon wines. Made from 100% Shiraz sourced from vineyards ranging in age from 80-120 years and with microscopic yields of 0.5 tons per acre, the 2006 Amon-Ra was aged for 15 months in new French and American oak. The wine is a thick, glass-coating, purple/black in color. The aromas cover a wide range of scents including smoke, vanilla, pepper, Asian spices, coconut, espresso, blueberry, and chocolate. Thick, rich, layered, and complete, this monumental wine offers extraordinary intensity and length. It requires 10-15 years to fully evolve and should easily last through 2040. Hats off to Ben Glaetzer for producing an extraordinary portfolio!

Score: 97-100. —Jay Miller, October 2007.

Wine Enthusiast

Shows a slightly lifted, peppery character on the nose, but also plenty of toasty oak and bold fruit. Loads of blackberries, blueberries and chocolate cascade over the palate, accented with enough spice and warmth to leave a fleeting impression of fruitcake. Lush and long on the finish. Drink now–2020 or beyond.

Score: 95. —Joe Czerwinski, November 01, 2007.

Wine Spectator

Firm in texture and deep and distinctive in flavor, offering coffee-tinged cherry and spice flavors that linger against slightly gritty tannins. Needs time to soften and open, but should get there. Best from 2010 through 2018.

Score: 91. —Harvey Steiman, June 15, 2008.