Yalumba, The Octavius, 2018

"Waves of charred sandalwood, white pepper, sage, liqourice root, juicy black fruits and balanced acidities giving plenty of freshness and a slow burn finish. You can already see just how slowly this wine ages, as even at 5 years old it is still very much in its primary phase, with muscular tannins that are confidently keeping everything in line. The fruit sourcing also reflects the drive towards fresher expression in what was a warm vintage, with 69% Eden Valley and 31% Barossa. Expertly navigated, picked a little earlier than many in the region. First vintage on the Place for this wonderful Shiraz. Ageing in 25% Yalumba coopered American octaves, 25% new French hogsheads, 6% Hungarian hogsheads. Winemaker Kevin Glastonbury, harvest February 15 to April 10."

"Coffee grounds, dark chocolate, mulberry compote and black olive tapenade lead the charge for this irrepressibly Australian Shiraz. Big bold forest berry flavors are effusive and almost gushing, held in check by the firm hand of tannic structure. Woodsy spices—sandalwood, particularly—punctuate the black cherry and salted licorice characters. This is really good, satisfying, mouthfilling, delicious. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork."