Glaetzer Amon-Ra is Ben Glaetzer's flagship Barossa Shiraz, crafted from 50-130-year-old vines in the esteemed Ebenezer sub-district. The 2012 vintage is lauded for its extreme depth and intensity, showcasing a monumental concentration that is beautifully balanced by surprising freshness and precision. This wine underwent 14 months of maturation in 100% new oak, comprising 95% French and 5% American, and was bottled unfiltered to preserve its rich character. Wine Advocate rated it highly, noting its massive yet balanced profile. In the glass, it presents a deep purple-black hue. The nose is an intense bouquet of blackcurrant cordial and blackberry compote, unfolding layers of licorice, clove, allspice, espresso, salami, and chocolate box. The palate is rich and full-bodied, bursting with ripe blackberry and cassis, complemented by satsuma plum, dark chocolate, vanillin oak, and baking spice. It boasts a dense, almost syrupy texture, supported by fine-grained, silky tannins, leading to a long, persistent finish with lingering notes of licorice, dark plum, espresso, and pepper. Some critics have noted a generous presence of oak. 🍴 For food pairings, consider slow-braised beef cheeks, chargrilled lamb cutlets with rosemary, aged cheddar or Comté cheese, dark chocolate torte, or smoked kangaroo or venison charcuterie. Beef and venison are generally excellent matches. 🥂 This powerful, full-bodied Shiraz is best served slightly below room temperature, around 16-18°C, in a large-bowled glass to allow its dense aromatics to fully open. A 30-minute decant is recommended to integrate the oak and encourage secondary development. It's primarily intended for dedicated sipping alongside a meal. Now over a decade old, it's ready to drink, with some tasters finding it at its peak, while others note it's still vibrant. 【Flagship Barossa Shiraz from 50-130-year-old vines, monumental concentration】