Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz 2023

This is ridiculous value. If the limited supply, or the price, of their iconic Shiraz Viognier puts you off, but you still want to see what all the fuss is about, you have no excuse not to load up on this wine. From a selection of five vineyards in the Hilltops region, fermentation was over two weeks, with no whole bunches included. The wine spent a year maturing in French oak. The colour here is a vibrant purple and the wine, as always, is beautifully constructed. Alluring aromas with spices, pepper, blueberries and red fruits, dry herbs and raspberries all present and correct. The wine has fresh acidity, silky tannins and a long and lingering finish with near perfect balance. A ten year proposition, if you can keep your hands off it, and good luck with that.