2018 O'Leary Walker Polish Hill River Armagh Shiraz

The stars aligned for O’Leary Walker in 2018, a low yielding vintage producing a rich, powerhouse Shiraz loaded with structure. Fruit was sourced from two Clare Valley sub regions, the cooler Polish Hill River and also the warmer Armagh, north of Clare. Maturation took place in French oak, 25% new, for a period of 2 years.

An explosive Clare Valley Shiraz.

Dense inky black in colour with a very deep bright dark red black tinged hue. Wafting out of the glass are heady aromatics of liquorice, blackberry and black cherry which meld into vanillin cedar, subtle dried herb and blackpepper scents. Bold and concentrated the palate is engulfed with rich black cherry, liquorice and blackberry fruits which possess a juicy opulence. A stern framework of ripe polished tannins and bright youthful acidity lend focus and structure. Lying underneath are vanillin cedar, subtle black olive, fennel and blackpepper nuances. Firm, slightly inky finish, exhibiting superb power with an underlying vibrancy to the long, rich black fruited aftertaste.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews….
Very good colour through to the rim; the bouquet has a complex array of licorice and tantalising warm spices. The palate is full bodied and intense, yet so balanced it doesn't muffle a classic Clare Valley shiraz filled with blackberry and black cherry fruit. Drink by 2038.
97 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion 2020 Top 100

This wine is sourced from the Clare subregions of Polish Hill River and Armagh. It is packed with a Clare Valley combination of blackberry, licorice and coffee grinds with a little black olive edginess. Has a succulent yet structured palate with grainy tannins displaying a subtle chalky edge. Beautifully presented and polished as you would expect from these guys. Great cellaring potential and a great price for this quality.
97 points
Ray Jordan – The West Australian