2019 Robert Oatley Limited Release Shiraz, Barossa Valley

A plush and polished shiraz from grapes sources from the Barossa and Eden Valleys. Twelve months in new and one-year-old French oak, made by Larry Cherubino. Aromas of ripe blackberry, doris plum, vanillin oak, violets and roasting meats. A beautiful roll of ripe fruit on the palate and, sure, oak plays a role in this wine, but it's sexy and fades back into that ripe black fruit core nicely. Superfine, powdery tannins lend support and the finish is long and well balanced. It's got poise and impressive fruit depth and pureness and a distinctly contemporary Barossan feel to its form.

96 points Special Value Dave Brookes for Halliday Wine Companion

The Barossa Valley has built its reputation on Shiraz, and few producers consistently capture its generous spirit quite like Robert Oatley. The Limited Release collection is dedicated to small parcels of exceptional fruit from premium vineyards, showcasing the character and depth of Australia's most celebrated wine regions. Under the guidance of renowned winemaker Larry Cherubino, every detail is focused on expressing vineyard character while maintaining balance and drinkability.

The 2019 vintage delivered beautifully ripened fruit with concentration, freshness and excellent tannin maturity. Careful maturation in quality oak adds layers of complexity without overshadowing the fruit. The result is a Shiraz that reflects the warmth and richness of Barossa while retaining impressive structure and refinement.

Deep crimson with a youthful purple hue, the wine bursts with aromas of blackberry, satsuma plum and dark cherry, layered with notes of licorice, dark chocolate, baking spices and subtle vanilla oak. Hints of earth, star anise and espresso emerge with time in the glass. Rich and full flavoured, the palate is packed with ripe black fruits and velvety texture, supported by finely woven tannins. There is plenty of power here, yet the wine remains balanced and composed, finishing long with lingering plum, spice and mocha notes.

Serve alongside slow roasted lamb shoulder with rosemary, smoky beef brisket, chargrilled pork ribs or a rich eggplant and black olive bake. The combination of fruit concentration, structure and freshness will allow this wine to cellar comfortably for 12 to 15 years. For lovers of classic Barossa Shiraz, this is a generous, deeply satisfying expression that delivers all the flavour and character the region is famous for.