Reviews & Ratings

2005 Clonakilla Syrah & Shiraz (Other than French) "Hilltops"

Winery: Clonakilla

Vintage: 2005

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Hilltops"

Wine Category: Syrah & Shiraz (Other than French)

Grape blend: 100% Shiraz

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: New South Wales

State or country: Australia

Price: $25

Cases produced: 350

KWG Score: 89 (based on 4 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good (89.99-87)

Review date: March 8, 2008

Wine Review: This very opaque dark purple wine opens with a bouquet that is a bit complex with black cherry, anise, cigar box, leather, and light barnyard aromas. On the palate, this medium bodied wine is round, smooth, has juicy plum like flavors with a little licorice, blackberry, and spice mixed in. There is also a little oak on the back palate as well. The finish is dry, has soft tannins, but is a bit brief. This wine would be a nice option with food. Particularly a NY strip steak or a gourmet Angus beef burger smothered with sautéed onions and mushrooms. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: Fruit for this Shiraz was again selected from four vineyards in the Hilltops district around Young in New South Wales. The warm, dry 2005 vintage delivers a substantial wine with a deep black-red color and bright fruit characters. Ripe plum and blackcurrants, with hints of aniseed and spice in the background. Wonderfully rich and lush to taste. Pleasure in a bottle!!

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Clonakilla 2005 Shiraz Hilltops.