JIM BARRY 'THE ARMAGH' SHIRAZ 2006 750ML

The 2006 Shiraz The Armagh is a bit of a monster, but in a good way. Big, decadent aromas of chocolate, blackberry and licorice are well matched to caramel-tinged oak. While generously ripe, there is also plenty of classic Clare character, with coal dust and dark earthy tones offsetting its ripe core of flavor and deeply set tannins. A long, strong finish is icing on the cake.

Brimming with a wide spectrum of blue and black-fruit aromas, this still has enticing youthfulness. A very rich wine, but you don’t feel the 15.5% alcohol, thanks to the stack of fine tannins Very long and remarkably fresh finish. The same wine under cork closure has more tar and is more massively tannic and chewy at the finish, rating one point lower. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

This bottle of 2006 Shiraz The Armagh is sealed under cork. This closure is better for this vintage. I love this. It's big and dense and chocolaty—but it’s right. It leans into its tannic structure under cork and celebrates its purple/black fruit and dry exotic spices.