2018 Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard Brooks Road Shiraz

A dense saturated inky black heart is accompanied by an equally deep bright dark purple black tinged hue. Nosing reveals fresh dark plum and liquorice scents which are interwoven with blackberry, vanillin cedar, subtle dried herb and spice notes. Medium to full bodied, there’s a feeling of both freshness and elegance to the dark plum, liquorice, blackberry and blueberry fruits but the intensity and richness is still there. Excellent depth with understated power. Elements of vanillin cedar, dried herbs and spicy pepper also chiming in. Finely structured tannins and fresh acidity provide a great framework. Concludes long and elegant although perhaps a little reticent in this early stage of its life.
Cellar 10-15 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews…..
From the '71 contour plantings, hand-picked, 50% crushed, 40% destemmed, 10% whole bunch, gentle extraction during 18 days on skins, no pressings used, 6 months on lees, then racked to foudre and puncheons (30% new) for 9 months. This oak use will continue in all releases post '18. Extremely complex and intense, but perfectly balanced red and black fruits, tannins a feature. Drink by 2048.
98 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion