John Duval Wines Entity Shiraz 2021

Winery Background and History

John Duval Wines, established in 2003 by esteemed winemaker John Duval, is located in the Barossa Valley, South Australia. With a winemaking career spanning over four decades, including 29 years as a chief winemaker at Penfolds, John Duval brings a wealth of experience to his eponymous label. The winery focuses on producing premium wines that express the unique terroir of the Barossa Valley, utilizing fruit from old, low-yielding vines.

Producer and Winemaker

John Duval serves as both proprietor and winemaker, overseeing all aspects of production. His approach emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the character of the vineyard and vintage to shine through. John’s commitment to excellence and his deep understanding of the Barossa terroir are evident in each bottle produced under his label.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The 2021 Entity Shiraz is sourced from old vineyards in the Krondorf, Tanunda, Marananga, Ebenezer, Moppa, and Eden Valley regions, comprising 75% Barossa Valley and 25% Eden Valley fruit. The Barossa Valley’s Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool nights, allows for optimal ripening of the Shiraz grapes, while the diverse soil types contribute to the wine’s complexity and depth.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Shiraz

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2021 vintage began with hand-harvesting of the Shiraz grapes, followed by fermentation in small stainless steel fermenters, some with submerged caps and twice-daily pump-overs. Post-fermentation, the wine was matured for 15 months in fine-grain French oak hogsheads (300L), with 25% new oak and the balance in older French hogsheads and puncheons. This regimen aims to enhance the wine’s structure and complexity while preserving the purity of fruit expression.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5%

Tasting Notes

The 2021 Entity Shiraz presents an aromatic bouquet featuring attractive notes of violets, dark berries, and plum, supported by hints of licorice and a floral lift. On the palate, bright layers of focused red and blue fruits intertwine with nuances of dark chocolate and peppery spice. The wine finishes long, with fine sheets of silky tannins providing structure and elegance. This vintage is noted for its superb flavor precision, 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. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Shiraz pairs exceptionally well with rich, flavorful dishes. Consider grilled or roasted meats such as beef tenderloin, lamb chops, or venison, where the wine’s robust fruit profile and spice complement the savory flavors. For a vegetarian option, mushroom-based dishes like a wild mushroom risotto or grilled portobello mushrooms can harmonize with the wine’s earthy undertones. Aged cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar or gouda, also make excellent companions, enhancing the wine’s depth and complexity.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the 2021 Entity Shiraz, serve it at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C (60°F to 64°F). Decanting the wine for approximately 30 minutes prior to serving can help to aerate it, allowing the bouquet to open up and the tannins to soften, enhancing the overall tasting experience. Utilizing large, tulip-shaped wine glasses will concentrate the aromas and direct the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate.

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under optimal conditions—away from direct light, at a consistent temperature around 12°C (54°F), and with moderate humidity—the 2021 Entity Shiraz has the potential to age gracefully for at least 15 years. As it matures, the wine is expected to develop additional layers of complexity, with tertiary notes such as leather, dried fruits, and earthy nuances emerging to complement the existing fruit and spice profile. Regularly monitoring the wine’s development will ensure it is enjoyed at its peak maturity.

Scores

• Australian Wine Companion: 95 points

• James Suckling: 94 points

• Vinous: 94 points

• Wine Spectator: 94 points