The 2000 Eclipse (a blend of 65% Grenache and 35% Shiraz, aged in large American barrels, and bottled unfiltered) is stunning stuff. Its dense purple color is accompanied by gorgeous aromatics of blackberries, super-ripe black cherries, and hints of smoke and underbrush. Like all the Noon offerings, it possesses stunning purity, a fabulous texture, and a long finish (in excess of 35 seconds). Anticipated maturity: now-2014.
 
During my trip to South Australia I visited with owners Andrew and Rae Noon. They are part of the young, open-minded generation (Rea's father also made wine) that is guided by one goal ... to produce the most uncompromising product possible. In 2000, there are 750 cases of the Eclipse, 260 of the Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, and 350 of the Shiraz Reserve, all three staggeringly great efforts from a vintage that, on paper, should not have produced wines this prodigious. Interestingly, I had a chance to taste the Noon offerings opened in my presence against bottles opened twenty-four and seventy-two hours earlier. Remarkably, there was not much difference. Even from bottles that had been opened for three days, the wines were still exhibiting incredible amounts of fruit as well as concentration. This always indicates the potential for longevity.

Wine Advocate #143 (Oct 2002)

Robert Parker

92 points

Drink 2002-2014