2004 Kilikanoon Covenant Shiraz

A superb, concentrated Shiraz displaying great fruit flavours and balance. Matured in a combination of French and American Oak (an almost universal trend in Australian Shiraz maturation).

Opaque black purple colour with deep black purple hue. Perfumed nose of vanilla and violets followed by blackberry and spice. Mouthfilling palate flavours revealing intense blackpepper and liquorice all sorts followed by an overlay of spice and plum. Back palate flavours of blackberry, toasted oak and mocha. There is a great deal of complexity emerging. Fine grained soft tannins, much less assertive than is evident in other Clare Valley Shiraz. Perfect balance. Very long aftertaste of vanilla, confectionary and liquorice all sorts.
Cellar 3-4 years (2009-2010)
Alc/Vol: 15%

Other Reviews…
The spectacular 2004 Shiraz Covenant, essentially declassified fruit not used for the Shiraz Oracle, spent 22 months in 80% French and 20% American 300 litre hogsheads. In fact, Kilikanoon does not use any small barrels, preferring the larger 300 litre vessels. Perhaps that accounts for the glorious levels of fruit and subtle oak influence in even the more expensive cuvees that are aged in 100% new oak. The dense, plum/purple-hued, full-bodied Shiraz Covenant exhibits notes of tapenade, blackberries, asphalt, truffles, and roasted meats. With a gorgeous texture as well as good opulence, vibrancy, and definition, it can be consumed over the next 7-10 years.
94 points
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate #167 (Oct 2006)