Shiraz    2021

Octavian

Octavian Shiraz Wine from Curtis Family Vineyards, Mclaren Vale

The Curtis Octavian Shiraz from McLaren Vale, represents wines built on precision, elegance, and the purest expression of McLaren Vale’s most exceptional sites. Drawn from low-yielding, old-vine vineyards rooted in mineral-rich ironstone and red-brown loams, Octavian showcases Shiraz in its most refined and architectural form.

Sale price$350.00
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Package: 1 Bottle
AWARDS

2021

2021

97 points – Sam Kim Wine Orbit
96 points – Ray Jordan, The Wine Pilot
94 points – Ned Goodwin
94 points – Lisa Cardelli, The Wine Pilot
94 points – Bob Campbell, The Real Review

2020

2020

Gold Medal – AWC Vienna International Wine Challenge 2022
98 points – Sam Kim Wine Orbit
95 points – Ken Gargett, The Wine Pilot

Before 2020

Before 2020

2020 was the first vintage for this wine

WINEMAKING

Curtis Family Vineyards sources fruit from a combination of owned vineyards and premium McLaren Vale growers. 

The blend of individual vineyards and sub-regional characteristics is the key to the resulting style.

Handpicked in the cool of early morning and slowly destemmed and roller table sorted to maintain whole berries, retained for aromatic lift. 

Berries and juice are then chilled down to allow for cold soaking to encourage early colour stabilisation and gentle phenolic release.

Fermented in small open fermenters with daily air purging and rummaging delicately, allowing gentle pump-overs as the cap softened. Peak fermentation temperatures are held at 18–20°C to preserve dark fruit aromatics while allowing full extraction.

The wine completed malolactic fermentation in barrel and matured for 36 months in a selection of fine-grained French oak hogsheads, 100% new. 

This patient aging process allows the wine to develop remarkable complexity while softening its structure and integrating subtle oak characteristics with the fruit's natural expression.

The extended barrel aging bestows the wine with sophisticated layers of flavour and a refined texture that complements the varietal's inherent silkiness. 

This careful maturation transforms excellent fruit into an exceptional wine, creating depth and nuance that only time can provide.

Aging potential 10 - 40 years

TASTING NOTE

Brooding and architectural from the first glance, the Octavian opens with a dark, resonant perfume of blackberry compote, cassis, and black plum, seamlessly interwoven with violet, crushed graphite, star anise, and cocoa powder. A subtle thread of smoked cedar lends quiet sophistication, while a faint lift of blueberry and fresh licorice hints at the cool, even temperament of the vintage.

On the palate, the wine is sumptuous yet impeccably disciplined. A deep tide of blackberry, black cherry, and boysenberry rolls across the tongue, folding into layers of dark chocolate, espresso bean, and ironstone minerality.

The tannins are exceptionally fine — long, linear, and beautifully shaped — giving the wine both gravitas and grace. A quietly powerful acidity runs through the core, tightening the weave and holding every element in perfect tension.

The finish is long, resonant, and quietly commanding. Black plum skin, cocoa, sandalwood, and warm spice linger for nearly a minute, closing with the unmistakable McLaren Vale Shiraz imprint: a final, refined whisper of graphite that echoes long after the last sip.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the alcohol content of Octavian Shiraz?

    It typically sits around 14%–14.5% ABV, giving it a full-bodied presence while still maintaining balance and control.

  • Is Octavian Shiraz dry or sweet?

    It’s a dry wine, but the concentration of fruit creates a smooth, polished texture, rather than a sharp or aggressive finish.

  • Does Octavian Shiraz need decanting?

    Yes—decanting for 45–60 minutes helps soften the tannins and allows the wine to fully open up.

  • What is the ideal serving temperature for Octavian Shiraz?

    Serve at around 16–18°C. Slight cooling helps highlight its structure and freshness.

  • Is Octavian Shiraz suitable for collectors?

    Yes—its ageing potential, structure, and limited production make it highly appealing for collectors.

  • What should I look for when tasting this wine?

    Focus on the layering of flavours, fine tannins, and length of the finish, which indicate its premium quality.