The medium ruby-colored 2006 The Duke Grenache was sourced from a vineyard planted in 1926. Aged primarily in seasoned oak, it offers up a multifaceted aromatic array of cedar, spice box, mineral, lavender, and black cherry. Layered yet elegant on the palate, it shows plenty of power, ripe tannin, savory red fruit flavors, and splendid balance. It will offer prime drinking from 2011 to 2021. Kilikanoon’s portfolio includes a number of notable values that are listed at the conclusion of this report. Kilikanoon’s winemaker is the talented Kevin Mitchell. The house specialty is Shiraz but Mitchell does equally well with Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache.Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars; www.oldbridgecellars.com

Soft and ripe, with a burr to the tannins wrapped around the lively, fresh blackberry and currant fruit, lingering easily on the polished finish. Drink now through 2012. 100 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Clare Valley Select to Add

A top-notch effort, The Duke (a single-vineyard bottling) offers lovely cherry fruit, full body allied to a wonderfully silky texture and tremendous length. What’s not to like? Drink it over the next 3–4 years.——J.C.(8/1/2010)—— 93