Geoff Merrill Henley Shiraz Recorked 2005, Geoff Merrill Wines, McLaren Vale shows power with elegance after nearly two decades. The bouquet brings mature dark cherry, preserved plum and blackcurrant jam framed by fragrant cedar, cigar box and a gentle waft of leather. On the palate it remains firm and structured, with savoury oak, spice (white pepper, clove), dried herbs and a muscular core of fruit that’s softened by age. The finish is long, dry and gently dusty with fine, resolved tannins. Critics rate this vintage about 92/100.