John Hill Wines is a small ultra-premium producer of commemorative wines. Founder Leon Hill – is a direct descendant of John Hill who arrived as the Bosun on HMS Buffalo to participate in the establishment of the colony of South Australia in 1836.

A deep ruby wine with vibrant colour, full of ripe opulent dark plums and forest fruit aromas. An earthy note ties into the rich and complex oak structure. These flavours merge together on the palate and are guided by a generous serve of well-rounded tannins, allowing for the balanced palate to extend into a pleasantly lingering finish.

John Hill was the bosun on the HMS Buffalo, which arrived as part of the establishment of the colony of South Australia in 1836. Leon Hill, the founder of this McLaren Vale winery, is a descendent of John. The wine is under cork. Dark maroon hue for this superb McLaren Vale red. It is bright and bold, a fine example of warm climate Shiraz. Richly flavoured, it is chockful of notes of coffee beans, chocolate, licorice, florals, plums and blackberries. Good oak, still in the process of integration, but all is proceeding well. That said, this will be even better in twelve months. A plush texture, good intensity, serious length and fine tannins – everything is in place for a long life. Enjoy this over the next ten to fifteen years Date: Feb 2025; Price: $230.00; Drink by: 2025-2039; Rating: 94 Points; Ray Jordan