Thorn Clarke Shotfire Barossa Valley Shiraz 2012

<p> The Thorn and Clarke families are custodians of seriously old vines – and an estate with an impressive record of trophies. Reds are what they do best. Much-acclaimed reds to be exact. Take Shotfire Shiraz for example: </p> <p> JAMES HALLIDAY WINE COMPANION 2014 92 Points: “A generous medium to full-bodied wine, the bouquet and palate offering plum, blackberry, and dabs of chocolate and vanilla ex oak first up, given complexity by the brambly, savoury finish.” </p> <p> CAMPBELL MATTINSON 92 Points: “It’s a big red but it’s not overdone. It does taste of blackberry, coal and tar and the flavour profile is generally at the bigger, exaggerated end of the ripeness spectrum. But it retains a freshness, a clean drinkability, a gutsy rendition of elegance. Smoky, clovey, almost ferrous tannin is a welcome feature. As are gentle infusions of raspberry and vanilla cream. It’s good winter drinking.” </p> <p> STEPHEN TANZER'S INTERNATIONAL WINE CELLAR SCORES 2014 91 Points: “Bright purple. Sexy cassis, blackberry and vanilla aromas are complemented by hints of peppery spices, licorice and mocha. Fleshy and broad on the palate, offering intense dark berry flavours, a touch of spicecake and very good depth. The licorice and cassis notes repeat on the energetic, youthfully tannic finish.” </p>