Kilikanoon Attunga 1865 Shiraz 2018

Planted in 1865, so this ancient Clare Valley vineyard provides fruit from some of the oldest Shiraz vines on the planet. The crop is usually around one tonne per acre from a vineyard located just to the north of Auburn, for those who know the Clare. This wine is not released every year, but a superb vintage such as 2018 was a certainty. Deep maroon in colour, the nose is concentrated and powerful, and yet utterly alluring. Imagine a handful of rich, fertile soil, dark chocolate, delicatessen notes, dried herbs, cassis and leather. Plums, soy notes, licorice and beef stock too – the hits just keep coming! The texture is supple and seamless and the wine is finely balanced. Good fresh acidity runs the length and there are delightfully silky tannins. Intensity is maintained throughout so feel free to drink any time over the next two decades.