2002 d'Arenberg Shiraz The Dead Arm

Bright full ruby. Varietally expressive aromas of currant, espresso, smoke, gunflint and sexy oak, with a distinctly feral note. Highly concentrated, dense and smoky, with a strong syrah note of gunflint. Broad, mouthfilling shiraz with lovely framing acidity, intriguing minerality and impressively sweet tannins.

After re-tasting the 2002 The Dead Arm Shiraz, I believe my initial rating is correct. It still plays it close to the vest, exhibiting loads of cassis, asphalt, smoke, and barbecue spice-like aromas along with full-bodied flavors. While well-made and impressive, it remains backward and restrained, and does not appear to be up to the quality of either the 2003 or the great 2001. Wine Advocate.October, 2005