2016 Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier

Co-fermented with 6% Viognier this wine displays a very deep dark red black tinged core with a bright dark red hue. Superb, perfumed aromatics of violets, dark plums, liquorice and clove tinged with hints of dried apricot and faint honeysuckle blossom from the glass. Lightly toasted oak and spicy pepper adding further interest. Medium bodied, savoury, complex and exceptionally long with a power wave reminiscent of Grand Cru Burgundy, the palate is slightly fuller and richer than the previous two vintages, yet still possesses its trademark power without weight characteristic. Supplely textured flavours of spicy dark plums, liquorice and faint dried apricot fan out across the palate like a peacocks tail, seemingly never ending. Underscoring the savoury fruit are nuances of vanillin cedar, light honeysuckle and traces of dried clove. Magnificent length with an exceptionally long aftertaste of spicy dark plum, liquorice, infusions of dried clove, faint dried apricot, perfectly integrated vanillin cedar and white pepper.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews…
When placed next to '16 O'Riada, the colour seems light (though bright), but the perfumed, spicy bouquet with red flowers and fruits doesn't prepare you for the intensity and piercing length of the beautifully balanced medium-bodied palate. This is a truly glorious wine that draws you back again and again to explore the wealth of red fruit flavours, and the majesty of its textures and flavours. Drink by 2041.
98 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion