Saltram Eighth Winemaker Barossa Shiraz 2000
Signed and made by Nigel Dolan, Saltram – part of Treasury Wine Estates, proprietor also of Penfolds and a snaking list of wineries – does not produce Eighth Winemaker anymore following the departure of the same. Nigel Dolan had gifted this bottle when I visited the winery more than 15 years ago. In 2007, he established Dolan Family Wines with son Tim, Senior Winemaker also at Peter Lehmann. The nose and palate is distinctly blackcurrant. With aged tobacco, leather and camphor that comes from evolution and time. I picked up some tartaric acidity which – half the bottle back into the wine fridge – disappeared two days later when the wine tasted smoother if a bit less vibrant. The trade-off was well worth it. And the difference on the palate between the first half and remaining other half two days later very enlightening. Saltram Eighth Winemaker 2000 is still available in Australia. Make sure the source is a reliable retailer where the wine has been cellared properly. Decant 30 minutes and start enjoying this pure Barossa Shiraz from thereon.