2003 Kilikanoon Shiraz Covenant

The 2003 Shiraz Covenant (from 30- to 40-year-old Clare Valley vineyards) spent 24 months in 80% French and 20% American oak (approximately 30% new). Its sweet bouquet of licorice, blackberry liqueur, new saddle leather, spice box, and white pepper is followed by an inky/purple-colored Shiraz with huge body, superb concentration, admirable acidity, and a long, 60-second finish. Young and unevolved, it should hit its peak in 2-3 years, and keep for two decades. This is one of the most brilliantly run wineries in Australia, and the quality of the entire portfolio is impressive thanks to the enviable talents of winemaker Kevin Mitchell ... also one of South Australia’s “good guys.” Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800