d'Arenberg The Ironstone Pressings Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre 2002 1.5L

With time the full spice, strawberry and liquorice and blackcurrants will develop with fresh pepper tails; at this stage, it is a mean monster with fragrant, gritty, fruit tannins that go on forever. Eventually, the Grenache and Shiraz blossom as rich, sweet, violet-like scents, with spicy based aroma, before malty, sweet, dark chocolate flavours and crunchy, chewy textured black olive, spicy ginger and long fleshy textures. The Mourvedre adds dried herbs and iodine characters that are very persistent, matched with slightly chalky tannins. The hallmark of vigorous, fine piquant tannin and acidity continue to reside with ‘The Ironstone Pressings’ after some considerable time, as have previous vintages since the late 1950’s.

Wine Spectator  Firm, nicely packed with jammy blackberry and pepper flavors, lingering nicely against a light grip of tannins on the finish. Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre. ..... read more

Wine Advocate  The 2002 Ironstone Pressings GSM may be the finest example of this cuvee I have yet tasted. A blend of 75% Grenache, 20% Shiraz, and 5% Mourvedre, its deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by an explosive perfume of dried herbs, black fruits, ground pepper, licorice, and old oak. This full-bodied, powerful, opulent blend boasts loads of fruit, wonderfully sweet glycerin, and a long finish with outstanding purity, definition, and structure. ..... read more