Elderton Command Shiraz 2023

One of the most iconic Shiraz from the Barossa Valley, the first vintage was 1984. The release of this wine is always eagerly awaited. From a Nuriootpa Vineyard, the vines are now 132 years of age. Maturation was in a mix of new French and American oak puncheons for twenty-three months. Opaque maroon with a dark crimson rim, it offers a most evocative nose. Seriously impressive oak integration, we have aromas of chocolate, blackberries, mocha, cocoa powder, bay leaves, vanilla, coffee beans, charcuterie, cloves and a flick of gum leaf. Exhibiting a supple and seductive texture through to satiny tannins, this is beautifully balanced with great length. A wonderful Barossa Shiraz for enjoying over the next twenty to twenty-five years. At the moment, I have it scored at the same level as the stunning 2022 vintage of this wine, however, if pushed I would probably go for the older wine by a whisker. Whether that remains so over time, we look forward to finding out.