1999 The Octavius Old Vines Shiraz
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Tasting notes
58% Eden Valley and 42% Barossa Valley 'from a number of very old Shiraz vineyards of predominantly dry-grown bush vines, producing low crops of intensely rich and powerful Shiraz fruit'. The fruit was picked markedly later than the 2015 was, in 'March and April'. Matured for 22 months in 70% Yalumba-coopered Missouri octaves – 90-litre barrels – and the rest two-year old octaves. This was very different form the much fresher 2015. American oak was present in spades – the whole impact was sweet and oaky and it tasted almost like a tonic wine. Not that refreshing though certainly big. Very much a product of the 1990s. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Bright ruby-red. High-toned aromas of currant, chocolate and mocha. Densely packed but a bit dry-edged, with a distinctly saline quality to its currant, licorice and mint flavors. Rather aggressive wine, finishing with a hint of greenness and some slightly drying tannins.
Made from 100% Shiraz, the massive, full-bodied 1999 Octavius continues the succession of profound efforts from Yalumba. Tremendously rich, intense, and multidimensional, it offers up notes of blackberries, sweet smoke, and melted asphalt. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025. Importer: Negociants USA, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-0993
About the producer
Based in the tiny village of Angaston in the Barossa, South Australia, Yalumba is the country's oldest family-owned winery. The estate produces a broad range of wines from entry-level to ultra-premium, such as The Caley.