2020 Sons of Eden Romulus Old Vine Shiraz, Barossa Valley

A deeply coloured shiraz from old vines in the Light Pass and Menglers Hill subregions, destemmed and matured in French oak (45% new) for 18 months. Blackberry, satsuma plum and red cherry fruit notes mesh with an array of fine spices and hints of pressed flowers, licorice, dark chocolate and earth. Lovely balance and fruit purity, with the pull of gentle sandy tannin and plenty of drive from the bright acidity. A great contemporary Barossa shiraz.

95 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Sons of Eden Romulus Old Vine Shiraz is a bold yet beautifully balanced Barossa Valley Shiraz that draws its strength and character from some of the region’s oldest vineyards. The fruit is sourced from low yielding old vines across the Barossa, many planted decades ago in deep red and brown loam soils over clay. These mature vines naturally produce small crops of intensely flavoured fruit, giving the wine depth, concentration and a strong sense of place without excess weight.

Sons of Eden is the partnership of winemakers Corey Ryan and Simon Cowham, both deeply experienced in the Barossa and committed to crafting wines that reflect site, vine age and variety with honesty and precision. Romulus sits firmly in their wheelhouse, an old vine Shiraz made with confidence but also restraint. Fermentation and extraction are carefully managed, and oak is used thoughtfully to support the fruit and structure rather than dominate it.

In the glass, the wine is dark and expressive. Blackberry, black cherry and plum sit at the core, layered with classic Barossa notes of liquorice, dark chocolate and baking spice. As it opens, savoury elements come through, hints of earth, dried herbs and a subtle graphite note adding complexity and depth.

On the palate, Sons of Eden Romulus is full flavoured and generous, but well controlled. Rich dark fruit fills the mid palate, supported by firm yet polished tannins that give shape and length. Acidity is well judged, keeping the wine fresh and energetic despite its power. Oak is seamlessly integrated, contributing spice and texture without masking the fruit. The finish is long, smooth and persistent, with dark fruit and savoury notes lingering.

This is a Shiraz made for hearty food and good company. It pairs beautifully with grilled or slow cooked beef, lamb, barbecue or rich mushroom dishes. It is drinking well now with decanting, but it will also reward cellaring over ten to fifteen years as it develops more savoury and secondary complexity.

Sons of Eden Romulus Old Vine Shiraz is a confident expression of Barossa Valley Shiraz, combining the authority of old vines with thoughtful winemaking. Powerful, polished and deeply satisfying, it delivers both immediate pleasure and long term appeal.