2021 Hugh Hamilton The Rascal Mclaren Vale Shiraz

95 POINTS

Ken Gargett - WinePilot.com

Named after Hugh himself – ‘Rascal’ was his father’s nickname for him – Shiraz and McLaren Vale go together like Lillee and Thommo, Fred and Ginger, Kardashian and celebrity. The team suggest gin and tonic (fine), Bogie and Bacall (absolutely, and if you are too young to remember, some great movies ahead of you) and the Royal Family and corgi dogs – perhaps, but given recent events, perhaps the jury might be out on that one for now. Opaque black hue, this is quintessential warm climate Shiraz – notes of mocha, spices, coffee beans and chocolate. A classic McLaren Vale Shiraz, it is still exhibiting the first bloom of youth and the freshness that goes with it. Layered, plush and seamless, there are ever-so-silky tannins on a very long finish with a fine flicker of acidity that runs the length. While it will drink beautifully for six to ten years, it is already delicious now.

94 POINTS

Sam Kim - Wine Orbit

Sweetly ripe and complex, the enticing bouquet shows Black Doris plum, dark cherry, toasted spice and hazelnut aromas, leading to a succulent palate offering plump mouthfeel combined with fleshy texture, finishing long and flavoursome. At its best: now to 2036.

92 POINTS

James Suckling

Opaque with a glossy purple rim. Impressive aromas of tapenade, barbecue, blueberries, cloves and pepper grind. There is an element of reduction imparting tension, yet nothing obtuse. The acidity is a little hard, to be a pedant. Yet the mid-palate is buoyant and pulpy and the finish a free-flow of fruit and commensurate joy. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

92 POINTS

Halliday Wine Companion - Panel Score

Opaque with a glossy purple rim. Impressive aromas of tapenade, barbecue, blueberry, clove and pepper grind. There is an element of reduction imparting tension, yet nothing obtuse. The acidity is a little hard, to be a pedant. Yet the mid-palate is buoyant and pulpy and the finish a free-flow of fruit and commensurate joy.