Yalumba The Octavius 2003
Syrah/Shiraz
from Barossa Valley, Australia
winemaker's notes:
Yalumba The Octavius has established a
reputation as one of Australia's icon Shiraz
wines, an amazing feat considering the first
release was the 1990 vintage.
In addition to being sourced from a number of
very old vineyards in the Barossa, The Octavius
is matured in American oak "octaves" of 90
liters capacity. It is the only red wine in the world
that is matured in such small barrels. The secret
of the wine not becoming overpowered by the oak
lies in the wood which is seasoned at Yalumba's
own on-site cooperage for eight years before the
octaves are crafted.
Yalumba The Octavius 2003 is very dark, impenetrable, deep black purple red
in colour. A fine nose of ripe dark fruits, plums, prunes and licorice exudes
scents of violets, dark chocolate and espresso. A smooth, silky textured palate
seamlessly integrates inky black berry flavours. Beautifully refined with supple
tannins, this is a wine of outstanding poise, elegance and length.
