The 2020 Elderton Command Shiraz stands as a testament to the Barossa Valley’s rich winemaking heritage and Elderton’s commitment to excellence. Sourced exclusively from a single block of the Nuriootpa estate, planted in 1894 and classed as an Ancestor Vineyard under the Barossa Old Vine Charter, this wine represents over a century of viticultural excellence and family legacy. Crafted by the second generation of the Ashmead family, Allister and Cameron, this iconic Shiraz continues the vision set by their parents – to produce one of the great wines of the world. Since its first release in 1984, Command has garnered a reputation as one of Australia’s most celebrated and collectable Shiraz wines. In the glass, the nose is rich and brooding, layered with dark, concentrated fruits and lifted by intriguing notes of roasted coffee bean. On the palate, plush flavours of spiced plums and cloves unfold, supported by a fine seam of black forest character. Bold, yet beautifully poised, the tannin structure is firm but polished, carrying the wine to a seamless, long finish underscored by remarkable fruit purity and complexity. This vintage is poised for longevity, with the structure and depth to evolve gracefully over the next 15 to 20 years. While already impressive in its youth, it will reward careful cellaring, unfolding further nuance and finesse with time. A truly remarkable wine that captures the soul of its historic vineyard and the enduring spirit of the Elderton estate.
