2021 John Duval Entity Shiraz, Barossa Valley

Intense purple-red colour and a spicy/meaty and dried-herb bouquet, very fragrant for such a big, powerful shiraz, with dried thyme, oregano and mace notes. The palate is powerful, concentrated and the intensity driving and long. There is delicious fruit sweetness and a warming heart to this lovely wine. Great to drink now and for at least 20 years more. 04 FEB 2023 Drink 2024–2043

96 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com

#1 of 53 2021 Shiraz from Barossa Valley

John Duval is an internationally recognised winemaker, having been the custodian of Penfolds Grange for almost 30 years as part of his role as chief red winemaker there. In 2003 he established his eponymous brand; he continues to provide consultancy services to clients all over the world. While his main focus is on old vine shiraz, he has extended his portfolio with other Rhone varieties. 

Fruit for Entity is sourced from old Shiraz vineyards in the Krondorf, Tanunda, Ebenezer, Moppa, and Eden Valley regions comprising 94% Barossa Valley, 6% Eden Valley fruit. Post ferment, the component wines were matured in oak for 15 months, with 25% in new fine grain French oak hogsheads (300L) and the balance in older French hogsheads and puncheons.

The wine is made to be approachable in its youth, but with ample structure and fruit depth to allow cellaring, under good conditions, for at least 15 years.

Attractive notes of dark berries and plum supported by hints of licorice and a floral lift. Dark and brooding, tightly wound layers of rich black and blue fruits with hints of dark chocolate and spice, finishing long with savoury tannins.