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Wine Description
The Story
Yalumba The Octavius has established a reputation as one of Australia's icon Shiraz wines, an amazing feat considering the first release was the 1990 vintage. In addition to being sourced from a number of very old vineyards in the Barossa, The Octavius is matured in American and French oak 'octaves' of 100 litre capacity. It is the only red wine in the world that is matured in such small barrels. The secret of the wine not becoming overpowered by the oak lies in the wood which is seasoned at Yalumba's own on-site cooperage for three to five years before the octaves are crafted. Yalumba is one of a select few wineries in the world who boast their own coopers practising the ancient craft of barrel making.
Wine Information
Despite the early heat and mid vintage rains, vintage 2006 has produced wonderfully aromatic wines with rich textures and full palates. All parcels of fruit were fermented separately in either 8 tonne open fermenters or 6 tonne static potter fermenters. Indigenous or 'wild' yeasts, naturally present on the grape skins were allowed to initiate the fermentation. Cultured winery yeasts were then added to complete the fermentation. These 'wild' ferments have helped contribute to the individual complexities of the wine, creating richness and fine textures.
This wine is a deep bold red purple showing exotic fig and plum sauce, mocha and black liquorice notes. The wine is dense and brooding, showing sweet Shiraz fruit concentration and fine seamless tannins. Long and lush through the finish, it has great integration, style and elegance.