McLaren Vale Muscle with a Silky Touch

Noon Reserve Shiraz 2005

Shiraz

From my time in Adelaide, I’d heard whispers about Noon’s Reserve Shiraz being a beast of a wine—big, bold, and built to last—so cracking open the 2005 was a moment of real anticipation. It didn’t disappoint.

Noon Winery is a small, family-run operation in McLaren Vale, and their Reserve Shiraz has built a cult following over the years. On release day, it’s not uncommon to see loyal fans lining up outside the cellar door, hoping to snag a few bottles before they sell out—sometimes within hours. The demand is real, and once you taste it, you understand why.

Drew Noon MW

Drew Noon, the winemaker, is known for crafting wines with serious intensity, but also incredible finesse. The fruit comes from bush vines planted back in the 1930s—low yields, high concentration, and tons of character.

Even after nearly 20 years, the 2005 is still firing. In the glass, it’s deep, dark, and almost opaque. The nose hits you with waves of ripe blackberry, black cherry, and plum, layered with warm spices, mocha, and a touch of sweet tobacco.

On the palate, it’s full throttle—dense, rich black fruit with notes of dark chocolate, dried herbs, and smoky oak. But what surprised me most was the texture: it’s plush and smooth, with velvety tannins and a beautifully long, warming finish. There’s plenty of power, but it’s not over the top—this is balanced, old-vine Shiraz at its best.

Definitely a wine for lovers of big, expressive reds. It’s drinking beautifully now, but still has the legs to go another 5–10 years.

Anticipated maturity: 2012 - 2030

Critics Scores:

Wine Advocate - 99/100

Wine specification:

- Grape variety: Shiraz (old bush vines, planted ~1930s)

- Appellation: McLaren Vale, Australia

- Vintage 2005

- Alcohol: 16 %