John Duval Wines John Duval Wines Entity Shiraz 2022 750ml

This 2021 Shiraz Entity is beautifully composed and sleek, with an engaging energy and brightness of fruit. There is outstanding detail in the form of white paper, cloves, cocoa and woodsmoke aromas with excellent oak integration. Superb flavor precision follows with layers of blackberry and chocolate and a gentle violet lift underpinned by a core of fine yet firm tannins driving through to a long, soaring finish. The 2021 is an exceptional and brilliant value.<br/><br/>

Plump blood plum and juicy blackberry aromas are underscored with bay leaf and peppery spice. The succulent dark berry fruit takes front and center on the palate, creating a luscious mouthfeel that's tightened by a gentle tug of spicy tannins and fresh acidity. Classic South Aussie Shiraz sprinkled with Duval style.

Aromatic and complex, with a plush, velvety quality to the blackberry, spiced plum and violet details. Reveals huckleberry, black cherry and bittersweet chocolate accents on the long, expressive finish, where details of fresh laurel bay leaf and Earl Grey tea linger. Drink now through 2034. 1,000 cases imported. (MaryAnn Worobiec)

Ripe but very attractive black and blue fruit with cooking spices, sandalwood and hints of tar. Focused and vivid on the palate with medium to full body and fine, well-integrated tannins. It is juicy and agile with some dusty mineral nuances and hints of white pepper at the end. Long finish. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

The 2022 Entity Shiraz is 85% Barossa Valley and 15% Eden Valley. The palate is, as this producer is so consistently capable of, supple and polished, with brilliant fruit clarity and poise. The framing of the 2022 vintage works in the favor of this wine; it is more bulbous and rounded than the 2021 tasted beside it, but I like it; it balances the heady fruit and brings pleasure and chew and bounce to the wine. Excellent. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

An elegant red, whose bright, juicy mouthful of raspberry, cherry and pomegranate flavors expands to notes of rose petal, spices, cedar and salted black licorice. The tannins show polish and a touch of creaminess on the finish. Drink now through 2034. 2,400 cases imported.