#49 of Top 100, 2021. A rich, succulent mix of dark chocolate, spiced plum, wild blackberry and black licorice notes. Showcases both power and elegance, with chai, cigar box, violets and dried sage notes, velvety and generous, on the long, generous finish. Drink now through 2035. 1,900 cases made, 370 cases imported.
Glass-staining violet. Mineral- and smoke-accented red and dark berries, vanilla and potpourri on the deeply perfumed nose, along with a hint of cracked pepper. Juicy cherry liqueur, black raspberry and fruitcake flavors are supported by an undercurrent of smoky minerality that adds energetic lift and cut. Shows a suave floral nuance on the impressively long finish, which is framed by smooth, harmonious tannins. 30% new French oak.
A striking wine for its extreme depth, as well as freshness. Ripe dark plums and blackberries bathe the nose and palate. This is lead in a fuller-bodied direction and makes a very youthful, bold and stoic impression on the palate. Fine now, but better in three to four years. Screw cap.
Where the cool 2017 brought increased elegance to Hickinbotham's muscular reds, this vintage returns to the powerful expression of warmer years. A big wine it may be, with a nose of strawberry and cherry preserves, mint, medicinal herbs and a toasty, vanillin underbelly, but it's also precise and site expressive. Tannins are fine yet powerful, and the oak is present, but this is a baby, worthy of many years in the cellar. Drink 2023–2035. (Cellar Selection)
The emphasis at Hickinbotham is on Bordeaux varieties, but the Shiraz is a sleeper—and well priced for the quality. The 2018 Brooks Road Shiraz includes 10% whole clusters and was matured in 30% new French oak. There was one new foudre, while the rest of the wine aged in 300-liter hogsheads. The nose is marked by scents of raspberries and vanilla, with some floral, herbal notes and hints of barrel char. In the mouth, it's medium to full-bodied and mouthwatering, with a long, silky-textured finish. A completely satisfying drink, it's rich without being at all over the top.
Winery Notes
Named for the street on which the vineyard is located, Brooks Road Shiraz exhibits the compelling single site character of the vineyard. Brooks Road exhibits the compelling dynamic between savory and fruit flavours which is textbook Shiraz from Clarendon. Sweet blueberry and rich red fruits interlace with notes of clove and menthol. The palate is expansive but pure finesses with a beautifully balanced acidity leading to a silky finish.
