2010 Mitchell McNicol Shiraz

95 POINTS

Mike Bennie - Halliday Wine Companion

The 2010 is now in prime maturity. There's loads of brown spice, dried fruits, fig and date, dark chocolate and the skerricks of blueberry, blackcurrant and green herbs. The palate and bouquet similarly set with these characters, and in the flavour profile, the secondary notes lend great complexity. Tannins feel loose but still lend structure, somewhat emery board in their composition. There's a sense of luxury to this wine, and still life to go for those keen on cellaring. Very good.

95 POINTS

Jeni Port - Winepilot

Still going strong as a 14-year-old. How much longer can this Clare Valley Shiraz continue at such a peak level? How long is a piece of string? Aussie bush, acacia, briar, bramble, bay leaf blend with ripe black fruits and potent spice. This heady aromatic introduction is a lovely and complex expression of the place from which the wine originates. The palate has impressive measure, lush, richly textured and ripe in black fruits, high spice, warm oak and supple tannins. Abundant in fruit and spice but it’s the regional touches that bring a smile, the Clare Valley touch of bay leaf/eucalypt – just a splash – that plays a supporting role as the wine progresses towards the finish. A touch warm to close but, believe me, no-one is going to object.

94 POINTS

Ray Jordan - Winepilot

Whoa, what’s going on here? A 13-year-old wine just being released. Okay, so it’s certainly showing some development but really it is still only in the early stages of its journey. Dark chocolate and spices with a faint library book nuance, whilst a cedary character adds further to its generous palate. As it opens up delightful, perfumed florals emerge. It’s still firm and purposeful.

94 POINTS

James Halliday - Halliday Wine Companion

Still retains most of its colour, power, depth and youth, dark fruits, spice, oak and tannins now all on the same page. It's thoroughly traditional makeup can be regarded as a strength or a weakness, but either way it's resilience has to be admired.

93 POINTS

Ken Gargett - Winepilot

A classic Clare Valley Shiraz, one which is already drinking well, but will also continue to provide pleasure and improve over the next decade. Dark purple/maroon in colour, the nose offers notes of blackberries, dry herbs, cold tea, chocolate, cloves and leather. Very fine tannins here, providing plenty of grip, but there is also impressive balance and excellent length. The palate sees more chocolate notes with a hint of tomato bush. Drink now and for the next decade.

93 POINTS

Angus Hughson - Vinous

This 2010 Shiraz McNicol offers unbelievable value for a 15-year-old wine that retains its shape and integrity. Thanks to the complex and savory aromas of baked earth, dried herbs and baking spices against a backdrop of charred red meats, there is almost an Italian feel here. At its peak, the 2010 retains good tension and balance, which ensure a long drinking window.

91 POINTS

James Suckling

Toasty and chocolatey shiraz with notes of dark fruit, roasted coffee, licorice and tar. Some ground peppercorns, too. Full and weighty with fine tannins. Succulent and mouthwatering. Spicy finish.

Tom Kline - Winepilot

This is classic Clare Valley Shiraz extolling the virtues of time, though still with a youthful pop. High quality fruit on display, centered around spiced red plum, before liquorice root, pumice, iodine, and pan juices bring savoury/umami complexity. A touch of beetroot in support. The palate is soft and supple with notes akin to the nose. While it’s not shy of oak, its integrated tannins and plum-drenched acidity keep the wine fresh and lively. A mature wine, with complexity and typicity on show.