Elderton Command Shiraz has established a reputation as one of Australia's finest examples of Shiraz, and its legendary status is seemingly enhanced with each release. The second generation of Ashmead family are current custodians of a rare piece of Barossa Valley. Estate grown on their Nuriootpa vineyard, the grapes for Command are sourced from a single block planted circa 1894, classed as an Ancestor vineyard by the Barossa Old Vine Charter.
The newly released 2016 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. 122yo vines, hand-picked over 5 weeks, open-fermented, 8 days on skins, fermentation finished in new French and American puncheons, matured for 30 months in those barrels. Wears its heart on its sleeve, but there’s no shame in that when it has a proud record of success for its opulent purple and black fruits and deft oak handling. Screwcap. 14.6% alc. To 20250. $130."- James Halliday Wine Companion 2020.
"96+ Points. A bit tighter and more focused than the 2015, the 2016 Command Single Vineyard Shiraz looks to have a bit more tannic richness and length, even if it's not quite as opulent or plush. It's still full-bodied and packed with dark fruit flavors and enough oak to give it shape and length. One of the best Commands I've tried."- Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate, June 2019.
