Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz 2013

Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz 2013 (Hilltops, NSW)
14%, Screwcap, $28

I’ve never quite loved the Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz, simply because it isn’t as sexy and svelte as the Canberra wines above it (often a bit ripe and gruff instead). This release is a solid one though, the tannins bringing me up a fraction.

Meaty, chocolatey and driven by red earth and alcohol, this looks almost too savoury at first, the alcohol and extract not quite supported by fruit weight, Yet the more you swirl, the more that mid palate fills out, the extra grip raising the drinkability (even though the acid is a bit sharp).

If this fills out it will be a very nice wine. In the meantime, a solid release. Extra points for the palate grip

Source: Tasting
Tasting: August 2014
Drink: 2014-2020
Score: 17/20, 90/100+
Would I buy it? Not quite. I’d go the straight Canberra Clonakilla Shiraz wines over this
Buy online: Clonakilla website