Long and luscious, this superb Octavius Old Vine Barossa Shiraz possesses a delightful drive and presence.
Sourced from five Barossa vineyards, the oldest of which is an 1854 Eden Valley site, 55% of the fruit comes from the Eden Valley with the remainder from the Barossa.
What sets this wine apart is its oak treatment. It is matured for 19 months in 25% new French oak hogsheads and barriques, with the balance in 1 year and older French octaves and barriques. These octaves are small 100 litre barrels with eight sides - hence the name. The greater wine-to-oak contact ratio is evident in the final result after blending.
Blackberries and black cherries steal the limelight from the outset and get in deep. The concentration and depth cannot be denied. Cedar and sandalwood highlights make themselves known which is expected given the oak treatment. Cherry liqueur, dark chocolate, vanilla and an array of exotic and peppery spices evolve with time in the glass. The length is seemingly endless as silky ribbons of detail continue to pin themselves to a memorable finish.
Decant for now or cellar long term. Either way, you are winning.
Drink to fifteen years+
96/100
Region: Barossa
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