2019 The Octavius Old Vines Shiraz
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Tasting notes
The 2019 The Octavius hails from a warm and dry year. This is the new-release Octavius for Yalumba and comprises 55% Eden Valley fruit, the balance from Barossa Valley. On the nose, the wine is spiced and dark, with torched vanilla pod, salted licorice, blueberry and crushed rocks. The tannins are firm and clench a little through the finish, which is the hallmark of the season in Barossa, as far as I see it. This is a powerful wine that is savory and earthy. 14.5% alcohol, 6.2 total acidity, 3.56 pH, sealed under natural cork.
Critic scores
Average Score
Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate
Angus Hughson, Vinous
More reviews and scores
This stylish 2019 The Octavius, which is a blend of 55% Eden and 45% Barossa Shiraz, is beautifully layered with initial aromas of violets, sage and white pepper followed by a rich vein of focused licorice. Sturdily, and tightly bound with powdery tannins, a superb mix of bright fruit pastille and dark earthy flavors are underpinned by wood smoke. Immensely complex and energetic, held tight and compact through to a finish of extreme length. This is benchmark Barossa Shiraz.
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.