Yalumba The Octavius has established a reputation as one of Australia's icon Shiraz wines, an amazing feat considering the first release was the 1990 vintage.

In addition to being sourced from a number of very old vineyards in the Barossa, The Octavius is matured in American oak "octaves" of 90 liters capacity. It is the only red wine in the world that is matured in such small barrels. The secret of the wine not becoming overpowered by the oak lies in the wood which is seasoned at Yalumba's own on-site cooperage for eight years before the octaves are crafted.

Yalumba The Octavius 2003 is very dark, impenetrable, deep black purple red in colour. A fine nose of ripe dark fruits, plums, prunes and licorice exudes scents of violets, dark chocolate and espresso. A smooth, silky textured palate seamlessly integrates inky black berry flavours. Beautifully refined with supple tannins, this is a wine of outstanding poise, elegance and length.