Yalumba The Octavius has established areputation as one of Australia's icon Shirazwines, an amazing feat considering the firstrelease was the 1990 vintage. In addition to being sourced from a number ofvery old vineyards in the Barossa, The Octaviusis matured in American oak octaves of 90liters capacity. It is the only red wine in the worldthat is matured in such small barrels. The secretof the wine not becoming overpowered by the oaklies in the wood which is seasoned at Yalumba'sown on-site cooperage for eight years before theoctaves are crafted. Yalumba The Octavius 2003 is very dark, impenetrable, deep black purple redin colour. A fine nose of ripe dark fruits, plums, prunes and licorice exudesscents of violets, dark chocolate and espresso. A smooth, silky textured palateseamlessly integrates inky black berry flavours. Beautifully refined with suppletannins, this is a wine of outstanding poise, elegance and length.

Rating for Australia-South Australia-Adelaide-Barossa: 90 (slightly better than average year)<br/><br/>Drinkability: young, aging quickly, could be good now<br/>