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2020 Nicks Secret Clare Valley Shiraz
This secret offer is far from a household name so we’re not entirely sure why the producer is mandating that we promote it as such. However, given that it was made by Kevin Mitchell, former chief winemaker at Kilikanoon, and the undeniable value at this secret price it’s a certified no brainer buy.
A big, robust Clare Valley Shiraz laden with blackpepper.
This is the estate’s flagship offering that normally retails at around the $50 mark and is matured in seasoned French oak for a period of 18 months. Impenetrable inky black heart with a very deep dark red black hue. Wafting from the glass are heady aromas of liquorice, black cherry and blackberry which are followed by vanillin cedar, earth, a faint whiff of dark chocolate and pepper. Rich, weighty and voluptuously textured, the full bodied palate is awash with aniseed, black cherry and blackberry liqueur like flavours which are framed by a muscular tannin structure. Scorched earth, vanillin cedar and peppered fennel characters lie underneath. Chewy mouth feel finishing long, sturdy and peppery.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%
Other Reviews…..
This is opulent and complex, showing blackberry, vanillin oak, smoked game and rich floral aromas on the nose. The palate offers both suppleness and structure, wonderfully enhanced by multi-layered mouthfeel and sturdy tannins. Substantial and delectable. At its best: now to 2037.
96 points
Sam Kim - Wine Orbit
A single vineyard Clare Valley Shiraz…….. the wine spent a year and a half in seasoned French oak hogsheads. The colour is that of a bruised plum with wonderful aromatics that are evident from the first sniff and they never stop coming. Blueberries, chocolate, mocha, coffee beans and cassis. This is ripe and concentrated, full of chocolatey goodness. There are abundant tannins but they are silky and very fine. Really serious length here, this will provide immense pleasure for the next ten to twelve years, likely more. Love it. Drink 2024-2036.
94 points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com