Yalumba The Steeple Barossa Shiraz 2019

A single vineyard (1.34 hectares) Barossa Shiraz from the sub-region of Light Pass, this was the vintage in which the vines reached their century, planted back in 1919. A wild ferment with nine days on skins, maturation was then for 16 months in a mix of French barriques, 24% new, coming from a 366 year-old oak tree. Dark maroon hue. Aromas swirl around chocolate, mocha, bay leaves, blackberries, florals, cherries, leather, plums and spices, all backed by excellent oak integration. There is good intensity here, but the generosity never waivers. Soft cashmere tannins, but there is deceptive grip, along with fine acidity and the balance is excellent. Mid length at this stage but it is building. Drink over the next six to twelve years.