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2018 James Halliday Wine Companion Results
04 Aug 17
GOLD - Outstanding
96 Points - 2013 'Claire' Reserve Shiraz Clare Valley
From 123yo dry-grown vineyard in Polish Hill River, NASAA organic certified since '12, matured in French oak for 30 months. A wonderfully sumptuous and supple wine, its bouquet and palate a treasure trove of blackberry, red and black cherry, spice, cedar and chocolate; fine-grained tannins provide support, as does the French oak. Once you've got a glass in your hand, you're not likely to put it down.
95 Points - 2016 Polish Hill River Riesling Clare Valley (SV)
Bright, light straw-green; a strongly floral citrus blossom bouquet with just a hint of spice leads into an intense, tightly focused palate, with lemon, lime and crisp acidity all contributing to a classic Polish Hill River style.
SILVER - Outstanding
94 Points - 2016 Gruner Veltiner Clare Valley (SV)
Its Bouquet of pear and citrus is varietal, but it's the drive and exuberance that are as impressive as they are unexpected.There is a tactile quality conferred by the crunchy acidity that runs through the length of the palate. Bargain extraordinaire.
94 Points - 2015 'Final Instructions' Shiraz Adelaide Hills
There is a cornucopia of purple, red and black fruits with a sheen of spice that lifts the finish and aftertaste. The oak and tannin balance is another plus for a very good wine with a long future.
94 Points - 2014 Clare Valley Shiraz Clare Valley (SV)
An attractive, well made Shiraz speaking with equal character about its birthplace and its variety. Satsuma plum, blackberry and just the right amount of oak are seamlessly joined, fine-grained tannins underlining the bond.
94 Points - 2015 Wyatt Earp Vintage Shiraz Clare Valley
This is a very good fortified Shiraz with a lower baume than used to be the case, highlighting the Shiraz varietal character, and also providing balance.
SILVER - High Recommended
93 Points - 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Clare Valley (SV)
92 Points - 2016 'First Past the Post' Chardonnay Adelaide Hills (SV)
92 Points - 2015 'First Past the Post' Chardonnay Adelaide Hills (SV)
92 Points - 2011 'Hurtle' Pinot Noir Chardonnay Adelaide Hills
90 Points - 2016 Watervale Riesling Clare Valley (SV)
90 Points - 2016 'Poppy Rouge' Rose Clare Valley (SV)
90 Points - 2016 'The Bookies' Bag' Pinot Noir Adelaide Hills
90 Points - NV. 'The Great Eastern' Sparkling Shiraz
*SV = Special Value