Bestowed with the highest possible rating of ‘Exceptional’ in the Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine, Jim Barry’s The Armagh Shiraz is unquestionably an iconic wine and has, since its inaugural vintage in 1985, blazed a trail of remarkable consistency and potential longevity. Sourced from a single Clare Valley vineyard planted in 1968, it is rich, intense and incredibly complex.

The 2016 is a sublime release with at least 30 years’ worth of cellaring ahead of it. Deep ruby in colour with great intensity on the nose taking you into the heart of the forest with aromas of wild red and blackberries, damson and plums, layered through to coffee bean and Madagascar vanilla pods. The oak is tamed and integrated, beautiful texture which coats the mouth and leaves incredible depth of flavour across the mid-palate, ripe blackberries, mulberry, black raspberry petal. Ripe tannins and a refreshing acidity rolls out carrying the long length, the power is harnessed underneath and this is a wine which could fool you, all components are in harmony at present and whilst you might be tempted to enjoy it soon, it will require cellaring for a minimum of 5 years before opening, ideally drinking 2026 – 2040. A truly exceptional Armagh!