Excellent Langtons Classification. Shiraz has been produced at Best's Great Western since the late 1800s, although an actual date of the inaugural Bin 0 has been lost in the annals of time. Top of the league from start to finish, what is certain is that Bin 0 is generally produced from Best's oldest plantings, selected from the lowest yielding blocks of the historic Concongella vineyard at Great Western. This includes nineteenth century and mid twentieth century plantings of Shiraz which yield meagre harvests of the most amazing quality grapes.
No grape is used unless it is in peak condition, no parcel of wine is considered unless it lives up to the most exacting standard. Only select vines that have made the grade are considered. In a declassified year some Thomson Reserve fruit (from some of the oldest Shiraz plantings in Victoria) can be included. Unique factors of soil and climate make a contribution. Cold to very cold winters, frequently dry and cool summers, with occasional bursts of hot weather are the norm. Fruit is hand selected, sorted and vinified by small batches in open fermenters, followed by rigorous barrel selection. Matured in a selection of new and used French and American oak barriques and puncheons for a year.
Deeply tinted ruby garnet with magenta hue. Rich opulent aromas of dark ripe fruits lifted by peppery bush spice, wildflowers and delicately toasted French oak. Intense velvety dark fruit palate restrained by fine crumbly tannins. The balance of perfumed fruit, tight grained oak and minerality lingers in the mouth. An opulent rendition of Bin 0 which drinks brilliantly on release as it continues to evolve extraordinary complexity and integration. Great with venison, game or lamb.
