Jim Barry The Armagh 2018

Region and Vineyards

The Armagh vineyard is one of the most iconic sites in the Clare Valley, a region known for its historic vineyards and celebrated for premium Shiraz and Riesling. Established in 1968 by Jim Barry, the vineyard was named after the lush rolling hills reminiscent of Armagh, Ireland, by early settlers in the 19th century. With vines that yield only around 27 hectolitres per hectare, The Armagh vineyard produces highly concentrated fruit due to its low yields.

The vineyard is positioned on a northwest-facing slope, creating a natural sun trap that aids in ripening, while the soil—a mix of sandy gravel and clay layers—adds mineral complexity. The continental climate of Clare Valley, with its significant day-to-night temperature swings, enables even ripening of the tannins and maintains the vibrant acidity and structure needed for aging.

Winemaking

The 2018 vintage had a notably dry season, with only minimal rainfall between October and March. However, crucial rainfall in November and December supported healthy canopy growth, enabling even development of the fruit. The grapes were meticulously hand-harvested and sorted before gentle crushing. Fermentation occurred in small open-top fermenters using heading down boards for controlled extraction of color and flavor, with twice-daily pump-overs and daily rack-and-return for a balanced texture.

Following a 16-month maturation in 60% French and 40% American oak hogsheads—with a significant portion in new oak—the wine achieved a polished structure. Peter Barry oversaw the vinification to ensure that each element, from tannins to oak integration, harmonized with the wine’s natural intensity.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep crimson with a vivid intensity.
• Aroma: Layers of blackberry, mocha, and garden herbs are complemented by hints of sage and praline.
• Palate: Concentrated dark fruit flavors of black cherry and blackberry dominate, supported by fine chocolatey tannins. Mocha, vanilla, and subtle smoky oak linger on the finish, with aniseed and raspberry adding complexity to the long, firm finish.

Did you know?

Jim Barry Wines holds a distinguished place in Australian wine history, with Jim Barry as the first qualified winemaker in Clare Valley. The Armagh Shiraz, first released in 1985, has since become one of Australia’s most revered single-vineyard wines, achieving an Exceptional rating in Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine. The 2018 vintage garnered 99 points from Andrew Caillard, MW, and Nick Stock of JamesSuckling.com, a testament to its craftsmanship and legacy.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Ribeye with Black Pepper Sauce: The bold structure and dark fruit notes of the Shiraz enhance the flavors of a robust, peppery steak.
• Mushroom and Truffle Risotto: The wine’s earthy, mocha notes find harmony with the truffle and mushroom’s umami.
• Venison Stew with Root Vegetables: The gamey flavors of venison are balanced by the wine’s depth and spiced character.
• Aged Gouda or Manchego Cheese: The richness of these cheeses complements the wine’s intense fruit and velvety tannins.

History of Jim Barry Wines Estate

Jim Barry was the first professionally qualified winemaker in the Clare Valley, graduating in 1947 and dedicating his life to advancing the region’s winemaking. After years with the Clarevale Co-operative, Jim and Nancy acquired their first vineyard, the Burton Cottage Estate, and began planting. In 1968, they established The Armagh vineyard, where Jim planted Shiraz that would later become the source of the winery’s flagship wine. Over the decades, Jim Barry Wines has achieved a series of industry firsts, including becoming the first Australian winery to plant Assyrtiko in 2012, sourcing cuttings from the Greek island of Santorini.

After Jim Barry’s passing, his son Peter Barry took over management, with his children Tom, Sam, and Olivia now holding key roles within the company. This dedication to family legacy has helped Jim Barry Wines earn prestigious accolades, including the 2020 Winery of the Year by Halliday Wine Companion and an Exceptional rating for The Armagh Shiraz in Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine.

Region and Vineyards

The Clare Valley is a premier winemaking region situated at the northern end of the Mount Lofty Ranges. Known for its rolling hills, Mediterranean climate, and unique soils, the region produces less than 1% of Australia’s total wine output but is celebrated for premium Shiraz and Riesling. Jim Barry Wines manages a mosaic of 17 vineyard sites over 320 hectares, each chosen for its unique soil, elevation, and climate profile.

Among the winery’s notable sites are:

• The Armagh Vineyard: Known for producing Shiraz of exceptional depth, planted on northwest-facing slopes with sandy clay and mottled clay subsoils.
• The Florita Vineyard: Located in Watervale, this historic site produces the Florita Riesling and boasts unique loam and calcareous soils ideal for high-acid Riesling.
• The Lodge Hill Vineyard: Located on the eastern ranges, it grows Riesling on south-facing slopes and Shiraz on north-facing slopes, enhancing both variety and terroir expression.

Wine Range

Jim Barry Wines offers a broad portfolio of varietals and styles, notably Riesling, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon, along with pioneering the Assyrtiko grape in Australia. Their wine range includes:

• The Armagh Shiraz: A celebrated single-vineyard Shiraz with global acclaim, noted for its depth and aging potential.
• The Florita Riesling: Crafted from historic vines, this Riesling is a benchmark of Watervale’s bright acidity and minerality.
• The McRae Wood Shiraz: Known for its intensity and elegance, this Shiraz reflects the terroir of Clare Valley’s prime Shiraz-growing sites.
• Assyrtiko: Australia’s first commercial release of Assyrtiko, capturing the vibrant acidity and minerality of this Greek variety.

Did you know?

Jim Barry Wines’ The Armagh Shiraz achieved the prestigious Exceptional status in Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine, equivalent to a “Grand Cru” rating. Additionally, Jim Barry Wines pioneered Assyrtiko in Australia, sourcing vines from Santorini, a groundbreaking introduction that reflects the Barry family’s commitment to innovation and diversity in winemaking.