2022 Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Shiraz, Clare Valley

Here is a Shiraz from the Clare Valley that every year delivers such wonderful value and quality. It’s soft and supple, with rich dark fruits of plum and dark chocolate and just a faint hint of liquorice. The palate has a slightly minerally, ironstone-like character infused into the rich dark fruits of blackberry and dark plum. Fine acidity adds further lift, and the oak is subordinate and supple. A great value wine.

91 points Ray Jordan Wine Pilot

Clare Valley Shiraz has a character that sets it apart — not the warmth and density of Barossa, not the plush generosity of McLaren Vale, but something more precise, spicier and more structured. The cool nights and significant diurnal temperature swings give the variety a lifted aromatic quality and a natural freshness that warmer regions simply can't replicate. Kilikanoon sources fruit from across multiple sub-regions in the valley, keeping parcels separate through fermentation and maturation before assembling the final blend — a method that gives the wine more complexity than its entry-level positioning might suggest.

Fifteen months in seasoned French oak hogsheads, hand pump-overs, basket pressed, bottled unfiltered. The approach is traditional and unfussy.

Brick red with crimson hues, the nose shows dark cherry, fresh tar, kitchen spice and a cedary oak note. The palate is generous and well-structured — dark fruits, clove and star anise, fine powdery tannins and a long spiced finish. Clare Shiraz at an honest price.

Lamb, slow-cooked beef, spiced pork or a Korean barbecue spread. Drinks well now and will hold comfortably for another four to five years.

Drink now through 2029.