John Duval Wines Integro Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2018

Limited allocation, sold out in most markets. 

Integro: to integrate or make whole. This is John Duval Wines contribution to the proud and distinctly Australian tradition of blending these two varieties. An age-worthy wine that would reward extended cellaring, allowing its journey of evolution to be enjoyed over many years. A wine from special Barossa vineyards, and produced only when the right vintage conditions prevailed.

Vintage: 2018.

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon(92%), Shiraz (8%)

Region: Eden Valley 

Reviews:

98 points - Andrew Caillard MW, The Vintage Journal

“Deep crimson. Complex blackcurrant, blackberry, praline, roasted chestnut mocha, marzipan notes. Richly flavoured, round and smooth with beautiful pure blackcurrant, blackberry mocha espresso flavours, fine loose-knit grainy tannins and underlying roasted chestnut, toffee notes. Finishes chocolaty and long with a long life ahead”.

98 points - Ken Gargett, Wine Pilot

"Sourced from the ancient vines from Eden Valley, with yields which stubbornly refuse to exceed one tonne/acre, the blend is 92% Cabernet and 8% Shiraz. Fermented separately for 8 days on skins in small open stainless steel fermenters with twice daily pumpovers, the Cabernet component was then aged in French oak hogsheads (50% new, 50% third use) for 18 months.

Near black with intensely dark purples. There are floral notes, rose petals, cocoa powder and purple fruits here. Mulberries, a whiff of dried raisins, bay leaves, rolled tobacco notes, spices, cassis, leather and blackberries. As one moves to the palate, the leather, mocha and coffee bean notes emerge more to the fore, and the chocolate, especially dark chocolate, gains in intensity. Serious concentration here, this is glorious stuff. Great length, balance, freshness and complexity supported by firm tannins. This is a wine that has two decades of improving ahead of it, after which, it should plateau for many more – this is a wine which really will benefit from time."

97 points - Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion

“Stunning fruit purity and detail on display here, with cascades of blackberry and blackcurrant along with cassis, kirsch, spice, cedar and licorice. The fruit is the star though. Achingly pure and beautifully integrated with all the components of the wine. Lovely tannin and oak management too, with an opulent yet graceful flow through to the enduring finish.”