Barton Rise & Barton View Shiraz Old Vines Barossa Valley 2018

From one of the great vintages of the century for the Barossa region, this is just what one would seek in their old vine Shiraz. Under cork. Opaque/black in colour with a dark maroon edge, there is an immediate impression of vanillin oak, but handsomely integrated. The nose exhibits notes of chocolate, graphite, mocha, coffee beans, cocoa powder, truffles and sage. This is a textbook Barossa Valley blockbuster. The palate sees molten chocolate, cassis and blackberries – those cassis and chocolate notes never waver. Obvious? Yes, but who cares. A cushiony texture, silk tannins and a structure that is just supple, seductive and plush at all times. Love it. This is not a subtle style, but if you are drinking top-notch Barossa Shiraz, you are not seeking subtlety. Ten to twelve years.