97 Points - Ken Gargett
Elderton Command Shiraz has established a reputation as one of Australia's finest examples of Shiraz. Drawn from a 125+ year old single vineyard site at their home in Nuriootpa, the legendary status of Elderton's Command is seemingly enhanced with each release.
The 2023 vintage of Elderton Command is another superb example of this iconic Barossa Shiraz. Blackberry fruit, aniseed and spices abound on the nose that carry through to a typically rich and generous palate that we've come to expect from Elderton's Command. There's always plenty of interest in this wine and fans of Command will find lots to love in this one.
"97 Points. One of the most iconic Shiraz from the Barossa Valley, the first vintage was 1984. The release of this wine is always eagerly awaited. From a Nuriootpa Vineyard, the vines are now 132 years of age. Maturation was in a mix of new French and American oak puncheons for twenty-three months. Opaque maroon with a dark crimson rim, it offers a most evocative nose. Seriously impressive oak integration, we have aromas of chocolate, blackberries, mocha, cocoa powder, bay leaves, vanilla, coffee beans, charcuterie, cloves and a flick of gum leaf. Exhibiting a supple and seductive texture through to satiny tannins, this is beautifully balanced with great length. A wonderful Barossa Shiraz for enjoying over the next twenty to twenty-five years. At the moment, I have it scored at the same level as the stunning 2022 vintage of this wine, however, if pushed I would probably go for the older wine by a whisker. Whether that remains so over time, we look forward to finding out. $150. Drink by: 2026-2051"- Ken Gargett, Wine Pilot.
