Yalumba The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz 2015
Yalumba · Barossa Valley, South Australia
At a glance
- Producer
- Yalumba
- Region
- Barossa Valley, South Australia
- Grape variety
- Shiraz
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Full-bodied and Bold
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $60-$90
Tasting profile
Ripe dark plum and blackberry fruit, layered with tobacco, leather, and spicy oak notes
Evolution: Expected to develop more complex savory and earthy notes with softer tannins
At peak: Peak complexity with harmonious integration of fruit, oak, and tertiary flavors
Structure
- Acidity
- Balanced, moderate to vibrant
- Tannins
- Firm and well-integrated
- Alcohol
- 14-14.5% ABV
- Aging potential
- 15-25 years from vintage, suitable for long-term cellaring
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2023 to 2040
- Optimal window
- 2020 to 2043
- Current status
- Drinking well, approaching peak
- Current condition
- Wine is mature with complex development, good freshness retained
The 2015 Barossa Shiraz vintage was excellent, providing robust tannins and balanced acidity. This wine's age-worthy structure from old-vine fruit supports a long drinking window with peak drinking projected in the mid to late 2020s.
Food pairing
Pair with grilled lamb, beef renditions, game meats, rich stews, and aged cheeses.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and allow complex aromatics to open up
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Yalumba employs sustainable farming including water conservation, integrated pest management, and solar energy use at their winery; implements cork and lightweight packaging to reduce environmental impact.
Yalumba is a pioneer in Australian sustainability practices with organic and biodynamic vineyards on some lines, extensive water and energy conservation efforts, and a commitment to reducing packaging waste. While transportation outside Australia adds to the carbon footprint, overall sustainable viticulture and winery practices earn a solid sustainability score.