2020 Hickinbotham The Peake Cabernet Shiraz

The 2020 Hickinbotham The Peake Cabernet Shiraz from Clarendon, McLaren Vale is a powerful red blend combining the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness of Shiraz. Aromas of blackberry, cassis and spice lead to a full-bodied palate with concentrated dark fruit, fine tannins and subtle oak complexity. Sourced from the historic Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard, this wine offers depth, balance and a long, refined finish.

Black/purple. This is deep, dark, brooding and coiled. Serious underlying power with balance, force and focus. Notes of aniseed, blackberries, dark chocolate, axle grease (in a good way) and coffee beans. Great length here with soft powdery tannins. The two grapes meld together perfectly, neither dominating, but both enhancing the other. Plush and soft and cuddly, this is a cracking red. 15 years plus if needed, but good luck keeping your hands off it for that long. Love it. - 97 points, Ken Gargett