Yalumba, The Octavius - Barossa Valley 2019
The Octavius, a unique australian wine produced from centenarian Shiraz vines
Yalumba, founded in 1849 and Australia’s oldest family-owned winery, has remained independent under the Hill-Smith family for generations. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their control over the entire winemaking process, including their on-site Cooperage. The Octavius blends Shiraz grapes from six Barossa vineyards, with the oldest vines dating back to 1854, combining Eden Valley’s elegance with Barossa Valley’s richness and depth. With an average vine age of 111 years, 69% of this Shiraz is sourced from Eden Valley and 31% from the Barossa Valley.
The 2019 Vintage:
Discover the 2019 vintage on video: https://youtu.be/JXX92H8qKs4
The cool winter of 2018 combined with lighter than average rainfall set the scene for the 2019 vintage. This mild, dry weather through the growing season produced grapes with great flavour and concentration. Summer was full of sunshine and dry weather, creating ideal ripening conditions for these old Shiraz vines to produce wonderful, expressive Barossa fruit, with vibrancy, ripeness and balance.
Tasting notes: Medium deep crimson in colour. Intense aromas of dark plums, black cherries and blackberry entwined with fragrant vanilla, spice, chocolate, black pepper and a hint of praline. Generously proportioned, balanced and rich, the palate swirls with blackberry pastilles, blackcurrant and sage. Hints of ginger and roasted nuts lead into smoothly honed, chocolatey and lingering fine tannins.