2023 O’Leary Walker Polish Hill River Armagh Shiraz

A bold, weighty Clare Shiraz that features impressive richness and power within a sturdy structure.

After building an enviable reputation working for some of Australia’s most prestigious wineries David O’Leary and Nick Walker established their own venture in 2000. Based in the Clare Valley they specialise in Riesling and Shiraz that consistently excel in the value for money stakes.
For the excellent 2023 vintage fruit was sourced from two Clare Valley sub regions, the cooler Polish Hill River and also the warmer Armagh, north of Clare. Each batch is fermented separately in two and four tonne fermenters over a 14 day period and hand-plunged. Maturation took place in French oak, 20% new, for a period of 18 months.
Dense inky black heart with a dark purple black tinged hue. Blackberry, liquorice and black cherry aromas flood the nostrils mixing with gently charred vanillin oak, black olive, fennel and blackpepper notes along the way. Rich, concentrated and succulent, black cherry, blackberry, liquorice and blueberry fruits explode across the bold, weighty palate. Scorched earth, vanillin oak, fennel and pepper elements lend further nuance across the back half. Boasting impressive power and depth, it has polished yet sturdy tannins and a long, sumptuous finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews……
Here is a wine that combines the power and intensity of Clare with finesse to create a stylish example of what the region does well. Fruit was sourced from the sub-regions of Polish Hill River and Armagh. Immediately strikes with dark fruits and spices, displaying blackberry, plum, dark mocha, and even a touch of black olive. The palate is deeply intense with richness and depth, yet managed with elegance. Perfectly balanced, superb value, and great cellaring potential—though beautiful now. Drink 2025-2045.
96 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com