Clarendon Hills, Hickinbotham Syrah, South Australia

Crumbly cork despite impeccable storage. Wine spoiled. Have more bottles so hopefully as once-off. Can happen to even the best wines

Showing signs of maturity at almost 12 years of age, the Clarendon Hills Hickinbotham Syrah pours a lovely garnet colour. A developed nose reveals aromas of blackcurrant, liquorice, mint, clove, prune, leather, and autumn leaves. Black cherry and dark chocolate flavours emerge on the full bodied palate. Based on the current level of development, the wine is in a good place for drinking now. While unlikely to decline in the near term, I can see no reason to wait further …

This was one of my epiphany wines when I started drinking, and every time I revisit I love it. Med(+) intensity nose and palate. Potpourri, raspberry, cooked red cherry, stewed red plums, charcuterie, nutmeg, cola. Med(+) acidity, med body, med tannins, 14.5% ABV. Long finish that lasts minutes. Curiously this was much fresher and more vibrant than my last 2014 that was on death's door. This still has several years left and is drinking at the peak of its powers …

Starts tight but opens up delightfully. Plum, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, grass clippings - it’s all here. Lovely medium body and licorice and caramel finish. Had with steak but craves zatar, curry, something more.