Reveals an appealing savory note, with bittersweet chocolate, black licorice, gingerbread, blueberry preserves and toasted herbs, plus cigar box accents and a touch of tomato leaf. Harmonious, polished and velvety on the long finish. Drink now through 2030. 100 cases imported.??–MW??Region: Australia / Clare Valley Select to Add

2018 was a gorgeous year—the reds across the board in South Australia are ripe and red-fruited, with impressive vitality and energy. Here, the 2018 Covenant Shiraz is possessed of all the red-fruited buoyancy and pink peppercorn spice true to the season. Additionally, there is deli meat and exotic spice, and the oak (what oak?) sits behind it all, supporting the elevation of aroma and flavor. Very smart. Velvety.

This has an appealing density, showing accents of mineral, dried herbs and black tea on a firm frame, with the harmony coming into focus on the finish. Drink now. 100 cases imported.??–MW??Region: Australia / Clare Valley Select to Add

Even better than the impressive 2016, Kilikanoon's 2017 Covenant Shiraz offers up aromas of violets, blackberries and blueberries. It's full-bodied yet vibrant, a bit Cornas-like (but without the granitic base), with fine, silky tannins and a lingering finish. It can be consumed with pleasure anytime over the next decade or so.

Juicy red fruit and licorice flavors are bright and tasty, with a firm core and details of paprika, sage and freshly cracked black pepper. The tannins firm up on the finish. Drink now through 2031. 425 cases imported.??–MW??Region: Australia / Clare Valley Select to Add