I read with some interest that Armstrong Vineyards, a new entrant in the premium shiraz stakes in Great Western, Victoria, is to release 500 dozen of its 1999 Shiraz in August 2001. Meantime, I just sort of hope they escape the frost, the rain, the fires and the earthquakes that may yet prevent even a single grape being harvested. Meantime, some of the 75 dozen of the rather greenish but sumptuously oaked 1996 vintage (16.6, drink 2001-2004+) is still around the traps for $39.00. Worried that we’re about to be engulfed by Australian chardonnay? Strike Two will be a rising level of shiraz that could make the melting of the polar ice caps pale into insignificance. New Australian plantings in 1996, 1997 and 1998 of around 20,000 ha comprise around 70% of red vines, most of which are shiraz. Hope you like the stuff.
