A terrific effort from two Barossa vineyards, one in Greenock and the other in Vinevale, this is wonderfully perfumed and floral on the nose, yet also peppery and fruity—in a word, complex. Ditto the flavors, which range from coffee to olive, chocolate to vanilla and berries to spice. All of these elements are tied together by a creamy, lush texture and a long…
— J.C.
(11/1/2007)
Not far behind Kilikanoon’s R Reserve—and, indeed, it comes from the same vineyards—the 2004 Testament is also a tour de force. There’s a hint of rhubarb and spicy cinnamon that lends intrigue to the aromas of rich blackberry fruit, while the flavors seamlessly blend in hints of red raspberries and cracked pepper. Finishes long, crisp and mouthwatering. Drink now–2020.
— J.C.
(11/1/2007)
This compelling wine delivers a tidal wave of chocolate, dark berries, earth and black olive aromas and flavors. It’s huge in the mouth yet amazingly supple in texture, leaving no sense of excessive weight or alcohol. Hints of toast, menthol and coffee linger on the surprisingly elegant finish. Drink now-2025.
— J.C.
(2/1/2010)
A top-notch effort, The Duke (a single-vineyard bottling) offers lovely cherry fruit, full body allied to a wonderfully silky texture and tremendous length. What’s not to like? Drink it over the next 3–4 years.
— J.C.
(8/1/2010)
Named in part for the year the vineyard was planted, this is a hugely ripe expression of Shiraz, a thick, chocolate fudge-like wine that nevertheless retains some freshness along with hints of black pepper. The texture is creamy and rich, while the finish is weighty and long. Drink now–2017.
— J.C.
(11/1/2011)
Full bodied and rich, with extravagant mint, chocolate, cassis, coffee and cedar notes that come close to going over the top, kept in check by muscular tannins that impart the texture of fine powder to the wine’s lengthy finish. Drink 2012–2020.
— J.C.
(7/1/2011)
Sourced from Kilikanoon’s home region of Clare, this is a lush, creamy-textured Shiraz of chocolaty richness, balanced by notes of black olive, plum and mocha. It’s intense but not overbearing, with lingering notes of dark fruit and spice on the finish. Drink now–2020.
— J.C.
(7/1/2011)
Full bodied and richly textured, this is a terrific example of Barossa Shiraz. From its smoky aromas and intense, briary scents to its complex, earthy, spicy flavors with an undercurrent of blackberry, this is a complete package. The long finish is slightly chewy, suggesting that additional aging is warranted. Drink 2016–2025.
— J.C.
(2/1/2013)