Pauletts 109 Reserve Shiraz 2020
G 96
Celebrating his long winemaking career that started out as the 109th graduate winemaker from Roseworthy College in 1972, Neil Paulett shows his mastery of Clare Shiraz with a stunning, evocative wine. Fully deserves its Reserve status: concentrated, balanced, elegant and so beautifully expressive. Forest berries, earth, woodsy spices, aniseed, choc-mint and a touch of eucalypt mix with savoury elements, fine but firm tannins and some good, old-fashioned textural interplay to produce a lively regional star with considerable finesse. Finishes clean and long. Drink now–2038 Rieslingfreak No. 8 Polish Hill River Schatzkammer Riesling 2024 G 96 With a delicately aromatic nose, everything appears like it is about to rise, like the sun behind the horizon. And on the palate, here it is, the sun! The residual sugar flows with the acidity cascade, masterfully driving the stream. You just wonder what happened and here you are, having another glass. It just works, as the synchronised movement of professional swimmers. Drink now–2036 Rieslingfreak No. 50 Riesling 2024 G 96 A wine of significance made to celebrate the winemaker John Hughes’ 50th birthday. The result is a tour de force, a very personal homage to the grape Hughes loves above all others. There’s a purity of fruit that goes beyond the complexities of citrus – impressive as they are – and ventures into the exotic, almost Asian in some scents and flavours and savoury in others. It’s a fascinating chameleon. White flowers, almond blossom, kaffir lime, lemon myrtle, basil, white pepper, grapefruit pith produce a focused Riesling of layers, incredible detail and drive. Tied brightly together by a pithy, chalky texture and juicy acidity in its youth, it is a mighty accomplishment to be able to enjoy early. But, rest assured, this wine will age. Drink now–2037 Taylors The Visionary Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 G 96 Clare Cabernet Sauvignon is in its happy place in this meeting of a top year, quality fruit, and sensitive winemaking that allows all to shine beautifully. Offers a glimpse into just how good Cabernet can be in the region, producing a seamless, enduring and elegant little gem. The wine flows in blackberries, dark plum, earth, pencil lead and baking spices. It’s complete, approachable now and yet there is just enough to keep you wondering, such are the depths to be explored. Fine, lithe tannins continue to work well, producing a freshness and vitality. Has plenty of good years ahead of it. Drink now–2040
South Australia 2024
175
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