2017 Yalumba The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz Jeroboam 3L, Barossa Valley

For long an Australian icon, this has really lightened up its act. For the better. The sort of exotic perfume-lifted lilac floral-seldom seen across shiraz from such a warm zone. Pulpy and juicy in the mouth, rather than over-extracted and desiccated. A beautiful sash of oak, directing a cavalcade of clove, five spice and ample blue to dark fruit references along a skein of peppery acidity. Riveting complexity and the feeling of something far lighter than the ABV suggests. This is a thrilling wine. There are no two ways about it.

97 points Special Value Ned Goodwin MW winecompanion.com.au August 2020

A polished shiraz that draws you very deep on the palate, with blackberry, tar, dark-chocolate and walnut character. It’s full and very tight, with tension and focus. Thick, silky texture. Unique wine that’s aged for 23 months in winery-produced 100-liter French and American-oak octaves. Drink or hold.

96 points jamessuckling.com Oct 2022

71% Barossa Valley 29% Eden Valley

Matured for 22 months in 28% new French oak barriques and hogsheads, balance in 1 year and older American octaves, French barriques and hogsheads

The 2017 The Octavius is deep red in colour with purple hues. Alluring aromas of spicy perfume, fresh lifted red cherry florals, blueberries, blackberries and dark plums entwined in cocoa powder and savoury notes. A deliciously complex palate with textural concentration and a rich core of currants, blue and black fruits wrapped in long, seamless, elegantly refined tannins.