At a glance

Producer

Jim Barry

Region

Clare Valley, South Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$50

Tasting profile

Ripe blackberry, plum, dark chocolate, subtle spice with underlying minerality and oak influence

Evolution: Develops savory, earthy complexity, leather, and tobacco notes over time

At peak: Harmonious balance of ripe fruit and tertiary aromas with silky tannins and persistent finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity balancing richness

Tannins

Robust, fine-grained tannins providing good structure

Alcohol

14.5% ABV

Aging potential

15-20 years, can develop complexity and tertiary notes with cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2036

Optimal window

2026 to 2041

Current status

Early drinking stage

Current condition

Wine is approachable now with attractive fruit, but will benefit from cellaring

The 2021 clare Valley Shiraz vintage from Jim Barry is known for its ripe fruit concentration and firm structure. Given the vintage quality and producer reputation, it gains complexity and smoothness over 10-15 years, peaking around 7-15 years from vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled lamb, beef steak, rich game dishes, and aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and aerate the wine, revealing fuller aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water-efficient irrigation, integrated pest management, native cover crops, renewable energy in winery operations

Jim Barry Winery employs sustainable farming with focus on soil health and minimal chemical use. While not certified organic or biodynamic, they implement eco-friendly techniques. The carbon footprint is typical for global wine producers exporting internationally.