"The stunning 2001 Shiraz Basket Press was fashioned by Robert O’Callaghan and his assistant winemaker, the renowned Chris Ringland. Initially, this dark ruby/purple-colored effort is not overwhelmingly impressive, but with aeration, the nose opens to reveal scents of loamy earth, blackberries, currants, pepper, and underbrush. The complex aromatics are matched by a savory, fleshy, structured, full-bodied palate possessing loads of earthy black fruits as well as subtle oak. It is a beautifully intense, old vine Shiraz meant for long-term cellaring. Accessible now, it promises to last for 15 or more years.

One of the pioneers as well as current reigning deans of old vine Barossa Shiraz is Robert O’Callaghan. Virtually all of his wines are sold to a loyal following directly from the winery door, so I am surprised any of it gets exported to the United States. I was even more surprised that I was lucky enough to find bottles at retail."

Rating 94 - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #155, Oct 2004

"Lovely wine. In fine form. Shot with earth, briar and blackberry, with brighter suggestions of redcurrant and integrated choc-vanilla. It holds its alcohol and its form exceptionally well, and has performed admirably in the hot vintage conditions – even if the fruit does show suggestions of raisining."

Rating 91 - Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front, 29th Sept 2004