2009 Hilltops Shiraz
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Tasting notes
99% Shiraz and 1% Viognier from three vineyards in the Hilltops region around Young in NSW, 40km north of Canberra. Vines are planted on deep volcanic loams over red clay soils. Grapes were destemmed and fermented warm together with 20% whole bunches. One of the three parcels of fruit was co-fermented with 5% Viognier (making up 25% of the final blend). The wine was matured for 12 months in French oak, 18% new, during which time it was racked once. Winemaker Tim Kirk. TA 6.1 g/l, pH 3.59. Delicate, serious and round. Lovely integrity. Savoury and with many a nod to the Rhône but no skinniness. Great finesse and not a bad price at all. Long. Liquorice. Dry finish. No sign of additions. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2009 Hilltops Shiraz displays pronounced aromas of freshly crushed blackberries and spiced blueberries over cinnamon stick, black pepper and anise. Medium-bodied it has a medium to high amount of acidity, a medium level of rounded tannins and a long berry-laced finish. Drink this one now to 2015. John Larchet, The Australian Premium Wine Collection; www.tapwc.com.au
About the producer
The Kirk family’s winery was one of the first to put Murrumbateman Shiraz on the fine wine map. Founded in 1971, Clonakilla pioneered this cool-climate region and today the estate produces some of the finest Shiraz in Australia and the world, inspired by the styles of the Northern Rhône.