Jim Barry The Armagh 2019

Region and Vineyards

The Armagh vineyard in the Clare Valley, South Australia, is renowned for its historical significance and exceptional Shiraz production. Originally named by Irish settlers who were reminded of their homeland, the vineyard was planted by Jim Barry in 1968 and has since become a premier site for Australian Shiraz. The vines yield less than 27 hectolitres per hectare, ensuring low yields for concentrated flavors.

The vineyard sits on a northwest-facing slope that maximizes sunlight, aiding in complete ripeness. The soil composition, a mix of sandy clay and mottled clay with gritty layers, contributes to the mineral complexity and structure of the wine. The Clare Valley’s continental climate, with its warm days and cool nights, promotes an even ripening process that enhances the depth and vibrancy in the Shiraz fruit.

Winemaking

The 2019 growing season was characterized by its dry conditions, leading to intense flavor concentration in the grapes. The fruit was meticulously hand-harvested and carefully sorted before undergoing fermentation in small open-top fermenters. Utilizing heading down boards, the winemaking team ensured gentle extraction of color and tannin, with twice-daily pump-overs and daily rack-and-return to refine the wine’s structure.

After fermentation, the wine was aged for 18 months in French oak, achieving a balanced integration of oak flavors and enhancing its potential for long-term aging. Winemakers Peter and Tom Barry oversaw the process, focusing on showcasing the natural intensity and finesse of this vintage while maintaining its trademark elegance.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep crimson, nearly opaque.
• Aroma: An intricate bouquet of purple fruits, exotic spices, and savory notes of cured meats, complemented by chocolate and mocha undertones.
• Palate: Lush and complex, with concentrated blackberry and dark cherry flavors, hints of licorice and pepper, and a velvety texture. Fine tannins frame the palate, leading to a long, layered finish with mineral and smoky nuances.

Did you know?

The Armagh Shiraz is one of Australia’s most celebrated red wines, with an Exceptional rating in Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine. Its status as a “Grand Cru” equivalent is testament to its consistency and longevity in the world of fine wine. The 2019 vintage was awarded 97 points by Erin Larkin of Wine Advocate, highlighting its seamless balance of concentration and finesse, showcasing the iconic style of Jim Barry Wines.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Ribeye with Black Truffle Butter: The wine’s dark fruit and spice balance the richness of a ribeye with the earthy depth of truffle.
• Duck Confit with Red Wine Reduction: The savory, juicy notes of the duck match the wine’s complexity and smoky hints.
• Charcuterie Board with Aged Cheeses and Cured Meats: The wine’s notes of deli meats and spice harmonize beautifully with a selection of savory charcuterie.
• Dark Chocolate Fondant: Complements the wine’s chocolate and mocha undertones, creating a luxurious pairing experience.

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.