1997 The Armagh Shiraz
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Tasting notes
Deep ruby. Liqueur-like, vibrant aromas of cassis, blackberry, dark chocolate, tree bark and eucalyptus, with a floral topnote. Explosively sweet and intensely flavored, but still tightly wrapped and partly hiding its density. Though currently unevolved, this superbly penetrating and solidly structured shiraz is utterly seamless. Finishes with firm but silky tannins and superb, subtle persistence. Should grow lush with bottle aging. Also tasted: 1997 McCrae Wood Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec Clare Valley.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Angus Hughson, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The firm and compact 1997 Shiraz The Armagh is in excellent shape for its almost 30 years of age, delivering a mix of leathery cedary tones underpinned by well-concentrated, just-ripe blackberry. It's a little rustic, with a slightly firm edge to the tannins. Even if a bit understated, its excellent overall integrity suggests it will hold that impressive shape for some time to come.
About the producer
Jim Barry is one of Australia’s legendary wine estates. Based in the Clare Valley, Barry was the region’s first qualified winemaker and pioneer of the valley, which has since become a benchmark region for Riesling, as well as being home to some of the world's finest Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.