Thorn Clarke Shotfire Ridge 2003 Quartage Jan 05

Unlike the previous vintage, this wine is not a true Bordeaux blend as it is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Sweet and off-sweet fruity nuances drive the bouquet with cedar, cigar box notes and a hint of earthy forest floor; also some leafy notes bouncing around under that lot too. Ample-weight tannins which are smooth but very firm finish dry, and whilst they are abundant, there is enough  black fruit which delivers intense plum, coffee spice and mint flavours.  Rated as Recommended with *** for value, the rating should improve as the tannins soften and the wine matures. The quality of the wine is consistent with the vintage conditions and once a gain Thorn Clarke delivers good value from money.

On day two, the wine had not changed one iota; it was still youthful, fresh and as vibrant as the previous day which bodes well for its future. Some peppery characteristics had started to emerge, but that was the only difference.

Copyright © Ric Einstein 2003