The Armagh Shiraz 2021

A special vintage perfectly captures The Armagh Vineyard’s particular signature of heady wild herbs, powerful black fruits and rich red earth. Age makes a difference, as these Shiraz vines grown on three contoured rows within a north Clare site are now more than 50 years old; their deep roots contribute to the complexity of big-framed Shiraz that carefully balances muscle with elegance. It benefits greatly from winemaker Sam Barry applying gentler treatment in the winery; the wine is now matured in the more restrained ratio of 60% new oak in larger formats with lighter toasting. A big liquorice lift in the aromas supports a swirling palate that unfurls layers of dark chocolate, tobacco and nutmeg on a brooding foundation of rich berry compote. Bright acidity and firm tannin ensure great tension, as waves of bright red and purple fruit swirl all the way to the tail of this wine, where its character shines brightest. A gnarly blackberry grip and firm tannins hang tough on that tail, with determined persistence that suggests decades ahead in the cellar.

The 2021 The Armagh Shiraz comes with the backing of the superb 2021 season that birthed it. Aromatically, the wine leads with charry oak and spicy black and red fruits: pomegranate, raspberry, blackberry and licorice. It smells succulent, ripe and plush, but it doesn't give the impression that it is bloated or heavyset. On the palate, the wine is everything we hoped it could be: mouthfilling, full-bodied, blanched and ripe. The fruit stays on the red end of the spectrum, while there is date, toffee apple, black peppercorns and a hint of prune through the finish. Dark chocolate, tobacco and star anise complete the picture. This is one of the very best Armaghs made to date, and it will be even better in time. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

This is deep, concentrated and wonderfully balanced with a full body but excellent freshness and energy. Aromas of black and blue fruits, orange peel, dried violets, star anise and coffee beans combine with a fine-grained yet solid and focused tannin frame. Long and intense. Drink or hold. Screw cap.