The 2018 Yalumba The Octavius Shiraz 3L Jeroboam is a spectacular large-format release of one of Australia's most established old-vine Barossa Shiraz, produced by Yalumba, Australia's historic family-owned winery founded in 1849. The Octavius draws fruit from six vineyards across the Eden Valley and Barossa Valley, with the 2018 blend comprising 69% Eden Valley and 31% Barossa Valley Shiraz. Some of the treasured vines date back to 1854, placing them among the oldest surviving Shiraz plantings in the world. Eden Valley contributes fragrance, freshness and structure, while the Barossa Valley brings richness, density and concentration. The wine takes its name from Yalumba's distinctive 100-litre “octave” barrels, traditionally handcrafted at the winery's own cooperage.
The 2018 is a powerful but remarkably composed expression of Barossa Shiraz, showing blackberry, black cherry, raspberry and dark plum alongside liquorice, violet, clove, sage, sandalwood, dark chocolate and savoury spice. The vintage has received exceptional critical acclaim: Andrew Caillard MW awarded 99 Points, while Halliday Wine Companion and Decanter both awarded 97 Points, and Erin Larkin for The Wine Advocate rated it 96+ Points. It also received a Gold Medal at the 2023 Barossa Wine Show. Caillard particularly highlighted its purity, precision and long-term ageing potential, giving a drinking window extending to 2050.
