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93
/ 100
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93
/ 100
Tasting Notes
Kilikanoon, located in South Australia’s Clare Valley, has built a formidable reputation since its founding in 1997, thanks to its focus on single-vineyard expressions and a philosophy of allowing site and vintage to guide the style of each wine. The Oracle Shiraz is sourced from select estate blocks, many planted on ancient, low-fertility soils that naturally limit yields and intensify fruit character. The estate’s approach is rooted in careful vineyard management - dry farming, hand pruning, and sustainable practices - to ensure the individuality of each parcel is preserved.
The 2016 Oracle Shiraz benefited from a warm, dry growing season that promoted even ripening and concentration of flavour. After hand harvesting, fruit was open-fermented in small batches, gently plunged to build structure without extracting harshness, and basket pressed before ageing in a combination of new and seasoned French oak. The finished wine is a powerful yet refined expression of Clare Valley Shiraz: aromas of blackberry, plum and dark cherry are layered with hints of star anise, cocoa and a touch of smoky oak. The palate is bold and complex, with dense, fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity, and a lingering, savoury finish. The Oracle 2016 stands as a benchmark for Clare Valley Shiraz - showing depth, elegance, and clear site character, a testament to both the quality of the vineyard and the thoughtful, restrained hand of the winemaking team.
Tasting Profile
- Light
- Full
- Low Tannin
- Tannic
- Sweet
- Dry
- Low Acidity
- High Acidity
Classification: Red
Variety: Shiraz
Vintage: 2016
Bottle Size: 750ml (Bottle)
Country: Australia
Region: South Australia, Clare Valley
Alcohol %: 14.5%
Cellaring: 15 Plus Years
Scores
93 / 100"The fresh, cool-climate vibe that runs through this six-year-old Clare Valley Shiraz evokes a frosty morning when you can see your breath in the air. The brambly berry fruit is lifted by cracked pepper, chocolate, sap and earthy spices. Savory, sappy tannins, crunchy brambly fruit and dried florals make up the well-structured palate. Length, depth and a sense of terroirs are all here. Drink now - not too warm - with plate of fatty cured meat or fire-roasted mushrooms."
- Christina Pickard
93 / 100
"On the nose, aromas of confit dark berries, especially cassis, accompanied by hints of raw cocoa, seaweed and warm spicy nuances. The palate is powerful without being overpowering, with ripe acidity, balsamic-spicy fruit, polished tannins, and a long finish."
- Falstaff Magazine
