Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz 2006

[Waiters Friend]

I found a couple of bottles of this in the cellar (purchased some time ago), and I was concerned I had left them too long. So, let's unscrew the cap and decant to see what would emerge.

Crimson colour. Dark fruits, including blackberry and black cherries. A lovely complex nose with coffee grounds (on the palate as well), earthiness, vanilla, cloves and some perfume and florals (violet?). The plate is full and rich, with milk chocolate, and more dark fruits. Tnnins are fine and have integrated almost totally, while the acid still offers a little zing around the outside of the tongue. A long finish for what is a medium to full bodied wine.

Looking very good now, but I suspect it's at its peak. Even 15 minutes in, the wine is changing somewhat in the glass. Drink now or soon - as I will with the last remaining bottle.

Cheers
Allan

[Waiters Friend]

Following on from the previous post, and having said I should drink the last remaining bottle soon, I promptly forgot about it and I have only got to it now.

The nose is somewhat muted by comparison to the TN above. The fruit has developed, while the cloves, coffee grounds, vanilla and earthiness remains.

The palate, however, is still highly attractive, with developed fruits, dark chocolate and some richness of flavour.

This wine is on the decline, but still enjoyable. If you have some, open them now. Go on.

Cheers
Allan