John Duval Plexus 2018

When it comes to Australian winemakers, few are as esteemed as John Duval. Appointed Chief Winemaker at Penfolds in 1986, Duval followed in the footsteps of Australian winemaking greats including Max Schubert and Don Ditter, and was the custodian of Penfolds Grange for almost 30 years. In 2003, John Duval established his eponymous label, with a focus on old vine Barossa Valley Shiraz, along with some select other Rhone varietals.

John Duval Plexus is a traditional Barossa blend of Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvedre made with the intention of expressing a wide spectrum of red fruit flavours whilst delivering structure and balance. Made using traditional winemaking techniques, the 2018 John Duval Plexus certainly delivers on its objective; this is a delicious, approachable red that will provide plenty of drinking pleasure over the coming decade.

Review of the 2017 vintage included below;

"94 Points. A 51/32/17% blend, the components sourced from various districts that produce high quality fruit. Standard vinification, then matured for 15 months with 10% new French hogsheads, the remainder 3-6yo barrels. It's a powerful wine in the context of '17, old vines doing what they have done for the last 50+ years. Needs a few more years to relax. Screwcap. 14% alc. To 2027. $40" - James Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion 2020.