Current bid:
$145
No reserve
Time Left
Ends Oct 15, 2026
Buyer's premium is set per sale and not included; the listing states the rate - GST is an estimate. Pickup/removal costs are not included.
Adjust tax & pickup in the true-cost calculator →Grays (AU)
Private seller (not a government agency), listed on a platform we index for its fleet and equipment.
Condition: Cellared
As stated by the seller. Always confirm on the source listing before bidding.
An iconic, ultra-premium flagship red from Western Australia, primarily sourced from the remote, ironstone-rich soils of the Frankland River region in the Great Southern.Named in honour of Houghton’s legendary winemaker who completed 51 consecutive vintages, this early iteration of the label represents a "show style" designed by winemaker Larry Cherubino to be powerful and deeply concentrated.The 1996 vintage was a cooler, spicier season that included a notable 10% to 15% Shiraz component blended into the Cabernet Sauvignon core. Aroma: A complex, heady bouquet showcasing an initial concentrated Cabernet lift of blackcurrant and redcurrant, layered over earthy, gravelly complexities. Swirling the glass releases the spicy, peppery influence of the Shiraz, alongside cedar, sweet liquorice, mocha, and hints of clove. Palate: Full-bodied and tightly knit with a supple yet powerful structure. The mid-palate offers a dense core of black fruits, olive paste, and cedar, balanced by a well-maintained line of acidity. It steers clear of feeling heavy, showing a sophisticated, savory, and slightly bitter gravelly grip. Finish: Long and balanced, concluding with lingering characters of earth, sweet dark chocolate, and old leather.At three decades old, well-cellared bottles have reached full, glorious maturity. Interestingly, the 1996 vintage saw a shift where the wine was pulled from oak after 18 months rather than the usual 24, which helped preserve its line of fruit. Be aware that bottle variation can be a factor with this vintage; while pristine bottles still show silk-textured tannins and excellent depth, some examples have begun to show signs of oxidation or mild volatile acidity.Decant gently just before serving to separate the clear liquid from heavy natural sediment, but enjoy it promptly as older fruit can fade relatively quickly when exposed to air. Part of the "5 Star Provenance Sale - Avid Wine Collector." sale on Grays.
Grays (AU)
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