Product Description
Jim Barry The Armagh Shiraz 2014 is a wine of exceptional depth and complexity, born from one of the Clare Valley’s most renowned and historic vineyards. Named after the lush rolling hills of Armagh—bestowed by the original Irish settlers who arrived in 1849—this vineyard was planted by Jim Barry in 1968. Known for its low yields, often producing less than two tonnes per acre, the Armagh vineyard is located on a northwest-facing slope, acting as a natural sun trap to ensure the fruit is perfectly ripened. The vineyard is situated in a region with a Mediterranean climate, receiving an average rainfall of 600mm annually, and growing in sandy gravel soils that contribute to the wine’s incredible concentration and complexity.
The 2014 Armagh Shiraz is a deep crimson red with a magenta hue, offering intense aromas of rich dark fruit, mocha, and garden herbs. On the palate, it reveals layers of black cherry, blackberry, and mocha-like oak, complemented by subtle hints of aniseed. This is a wine of remarkable power and finesse, with a finish that is firm, oaky, and persistent, leaving an impression of sweet fruit length. A true expression of the Armagh terroir, it has the potential to evolve beautifully for decades.
Maker
Jim Barry Wines is a name deeply woven into the fabric of South Australia's Clare Valley, a region renowned for its world-class wines. Established by Jim Barry, the first qualified winemaker in the Clare Valley, the winery’s legacy is one of pioneering spirit, innovation, and a commitment to producing exceptional wines. Jim’s journey began in 1947 when he graduated from Roseworthy Agricultural College, and over the following decades, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Clare Valley into a benchmark region for Riesling and premium Australian wines.
Jim’s early mentorship from Napa Valley’s Robert Mondavi helped solidify the vision for Leeuwin Estate and the Barry family's future in winemaking. Today, Peter Barry, Jim’s son, serves as the managing director, continuing the family’s legacy of producing site-expressive wines with dedication and precision. Now, three generations of the Barry family work alongside a skilled team to produce outstanding wines from the family’s extensive portfolio of vineyards in the Clare Valley and Coonawarra regions. The estate’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and respect for the land ensures that Jim Barry Wines remains at the forefront of Australian winemaking.
The Vineyard | The Armagh
Located in the heart of the Clare Valley, The Armagh Vineyard is one of Jim Barry Wines' most renowned and historically significant properties. Purchased by Jim and Nancy Barry in 1964, this 70-acre vineyard sits on a northwest-facing slope at an elevation of 367 metres, bisected by the Armagh Creek. The vineyard’s unique location, with a combination of alluvial flats and gently sloping hills, allows for optimal sunlight exposure and minimal soil erosion. The soils here consist of sandy clay over pebbly alluvial layers, which provide excellent drainage and ensure low fertility, naturally limiting vine vigor and leading to small-berried, concentrated fruit.
The vineyard is home to Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec, with the oldest Shiraz vines—planted in 1968—thriving in this pristine environment. The combination of ancient soils, a cooler climate at higher elevation, and traditional viticultural practices contributes to the production of exceptional fruit with complex flavours and great aging potential. The Armagh Shiraz has become one of Australia’s most celebrated wines, known for its rich texture, deep fruit concentration, and remarkable longevity.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Rich Dark Fruit, Mocha, Garden Herbs
Intense and complex aromas of rich dark fruit, including black cherry and blackberry, layered with mocha and earthy garden herbs. A powerful and inviting bouquet that speaks to the depth and quality of the wine.
Palate
Black Cherry, Blackberry, Mocha, Aniseed
The wine is full-bodied and expressive, with rich black cherry and blackberry flavours, complemented by the mocha-like influence of oak. Subtle hints of aniseed add complexity, creating a wine that is both powerful and refined. The texture is smooth and balanced, with a seamless integration of fruit and oak.
Finish
Firm, Oaky, Sweet Fruit Length
Long and persistent, with firm tannins and the influence of oak providing structure. The wine’s sweet fruit length lingers on the palate, offering a final impression of richness and elegance.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Clare Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2014
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%