Bests Thomson Family Great Western Shiraz 2019

97 POINTS

Tyson Stelzer

Exclusively the fruits of Henry BestÕs original 1868 plantings, the complexity and texture exemplified here are something to behold. Silky mineral-fine tannins weave seamlessly through a universe of perfect dark berry fruits and impeccable violet fragrance, graced with an air of exotic spice and incense. The pinpoint precision of line defines a flow of astonishing, unwavering consistency that perches motionless in suspended animation on a finish of incredible persistence. Tyson Stelzer WBM

97 POINTS

Tyson Stelzer

Exclusively the fruits of Henry BestÕs original 1868 plantings, the complexity and texture exemplified here are something to behold. Silky mineral-fine tannins weave seamlessly through a universe of perfect dark berry fruits and impeccable violet fragrance, graced with an air of exotic spice and incense. The pinpoint precision of line defines a flow of astonishing, unwavering consistency that perches motionless in suspended animation on a finish of incredible persistence. Tyson Stelzer WBM

97 POINTS

Erin Larkin - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The fruit for this 2019 Great Western Thomson Family Shiraz is picked predominantly from the old 1868 plantings in the Concongella vineyard on the Best's property. It is a resoundingly elegant wine, with a core of fruit that crouches, waiting on the mid-palate. It is complex and complete already, offering a window into what will be a very long life, indeed. It is an exercise in balance and length, line and form (mineral austerity comes to mind), with not a hair out of place. You'd be forgiven for saying the structure has an open weave, almost loose-knit quality about it, were it not for the super streamlined finish that shows all the openness and approachability is merely a clever disguise. This wine can be drunk now, and sure, it should be (it's delicious, the feel of it in the mouth is insane). But if you have the patience, wisdom and foresight to cellar it, your children will be amply rewarded.

96 POINTS

Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com

An extremely sophisticated and concentrated shiraz that’s so precise and focused on the beautifully balanced, medium-bodied palate. The interplay of fine tannins and lively acidity is really fascinating. Very clean and long finish. From the Concongella Vineyard.

96 POINTS

Jeni Port - Halliday Wine Companion

Best's remains at the top of its game because of wines like this; wines that hold true to the Thomson family's winemaking philosophy, celebrating old vines and its distinguished sites. It all comes together beautifully, perfectly, in Thomson Family Shiraz. Tasted 1 year before release and it's already an elegant and noble wine. Dark berry fruit, hints of sage and cassia bark with gentle leafiness. Oak and tannins, well, they are seamless and supple. A complex life awaits.

96 POINTS

James Suckling

An extremely sophisticated and concentrated shiraz thatÕs so precise and focused on the beautifully balanced, medium-bodied palate. The interplay of fine tannins and lively acidity is really fascinating. Very clean and long finish. From the Concongella Vineyard. Drink or hold. Screw cap.