Ranked #61 of 168 2018 Shiraz from McLaren Vale
92/100
4 Stars
![Stuart Knox]()
Stuart Knox
Deep ruby hue. Black fruit, cedar shavings and sweet spices on the nose. Those same characters are present on the palate. Medium to full-bodied, the fruit well-harnessed by firm powdery tannins that give length and drive. It carries quite long but leaves a cedar oak note in the finish that will need time to settle out
Tasted: 28/11/2020
Drink: 2022 to 2034
90 Points James Halliday
I recall this cuvée as being a reliable go-to. The French and American oak cladding feels about the same: charred espresso vanillans; resinous, dark-accented and intense fruit flavours. More reductive florals, in line with contemporary trends. The finish is forceful and long by virtue of the wine's sheer weight, extract and bitter jarring tannins. The tannin management needs some attention, but it will have plenty of fans. Drink to 2030.
Ned Goodwin MW. November, 2021