The 2006 Shiraz The Standish comes from extremely old vines (planted in 1912) and the sandy, clay driven soils of the Standish Family Vineyard. Aged for 36 months in older French oak, the wine sports classic Shiraz aromatics of upfront ripe blackberry and black currant fruit that’s complemented by notions of lavender, crushed stone, pepper, graphite, and savory, meaty characteristics that develop more with air. Full bodied and no lightweight on the palate, the wine delivers loads of fruit that’s carried by a seamless, focused texture, perfect balance, and a very long, borderline decadent finish. I’m a fan and this bottle didn’t really hit its stride until the second day, so if drinking anytime soon, a healthy decant is recommended. It should continue to evolve and drink well for 12-15 years and is a superb Shiraz!