JM 1ST APPROACH

Full purple-crimson; if depth and power of flavour are the sole criterion of quality, this shiraz would get 100 points; the flavours, too, are very good indeed, the only point of criticism is the somewhat thick texture. Will cellar very well, and is an outrageously priced bargain. 94 points James Halliday

James Halliday, September 2012 -94 Points - Good purple-crimson; as is so often the case, defies commonly accepted views about the Barossa’s (ie including Eden Valley) ability to produce high quality examples of a Bordeaux blend; there is an invigorating freshness and lightness of touch to this berry-fruited wine that draws it through to a long, lingering finish.

Have to say, from what I've tasted, 2012 is certainly a vintage where you can start to believe the hype. Spice, nuts, flowers, blood plum, a little chocolate and liquorice - sweetly fruited, yet it pulls savoury and firm. And boy oh boy, as the hungry cartoon dog says, is this a delicious wine. Pleasantly gritty tannin, gentle slipperiness, balanced acidity and lip smacking pure fruit appeal and hazelnutty flavours bring it home. Let's rate it appropriately highly, I think. Gary Walsh, Winefront.com.au Rated : 95 Points

The best vintage of Joshua ever, might I suggest? A pretty wine with its floral top notes, but also one of depth and exquisite balance. Raspberry, blackberry, baking spice and earthy bits – plenty to sink your teeth into here. It’s medium bodied with an uninterrupted flow of flavour, a smooth web of fine tannin and a very long finish. So satisfying. Textbook Barossa GSM blend stuff. 94+ points WIne front.com.au