News & Events

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