The Icon Six Time Gold Medal Winning McLaren Vale Shiraz 2012 Cleanskin is a powerful museum-release expression from a Jimmy Watson Trophy winning winery, delivering serious pedigree and remarkable value from one of McLaren Vale’s most celebrated vintages. A six-time International Gold Medal winner and awarded 93 Points by Rob Geddes, this limited release Shiraz captures the concentration, richness and regional character that define premium McLaren Vale fruit at full maturity.

In the glass, the 2012 vintage reveals a deep, inky garnet hue, immediately signalling intensity and depth. The nose is opulent and layered, opening with crushed blackberries and stewed plums, unfolding into dark chocolate, star anise and sweet leather, with lifted hints of mint and eucalyptus adding classic regional freshness to the dense fruit profile. On the palate, this is unmistakably full-throttle Shiraz, delivering a rich, velvety mouthfeel driven by ripe dark berry preserves and espresso tones. Eighteen months of American oak maturation is beautifully integrated, contributing savoury layers of toasted cedar, tobacco and warm vanilla while enhancing structure without overwhelming the fruit core.

Solid, grippy tannins anchor the wine, yet a surprising thread of natural acidity keeps the finish long, juicy and balanced, ensuring both power and polish. Bold and muscular yet refined and savoury, this is a mature McLaren Vale Shiraz that evolves impressively in the glass and continues to reward decanting. Allow 30–60 minutes of air to unlock its full complexity and pair with char-grilled ribeye, coffee-braised beef brisket, slow-cooked lamb shoulder or aged cheddar to complement its richness and structure. Offering museum depth, multiple gold medals and trophy-winning provenance in a cleanskin format, this 2012 release represents exceptional value for collectors and lovers of classic Australian Shiraz alike.