2022 John Duval "Entity" Shiraz Barossa Valley South Australia

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Rachael Ryan

Rachael Ryan

K&L Buyer

Review Date: 10/2025

Having previously spent 28 years at Penfolds, including time as Chief Winemaker, John Duval knows Shiraz. He launched his own label in 2003 to further explore the old vines of the Barossa Valley, many of which are now over 100 years old. The 2022 Entity Shiraz is made from fruit from old vineyards in the Krondorf, Tanunda, Marananga, Ebenezer, Moppa, and Eden Valley region (about 85% Barossa Valley, 15% Eden Valley). Each parcel was fermented separately in small stainless steel fermenters, with twice daily pump overs for gentle extraction. After fermentation, each parcel was matured in oak for 15 months, with 28% in new French oak and the balance in older French oak. A swirl of wild blueberry and black plum jumps immediately out of the glass, followed by spicy and savory notes of black pepper and smoked meats. Despite the high degree of concentration, the Entity is quite refreshing on the palate, with supple, well-integrated tannins that make the wine immediately drinkable. With cooler nights approaching, this is the perfect pairing for a roast or a chat by the fireplace.

Notes

John Duval is one of Australia's most acclaimed winemakers, with deep roots in South Australia’s Barossa Valley. His passion was cemented during a 28-year tenure at Penfolds, where he rose to Chief Winemaker and played a pivotal role in the legacy of the iconic Grange. Recognized globally, his accolades include International Winemaker of the Year and Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year. In 2003, Duval launched his own label—John Duval Wines—focused on the Barossa’s low-yielding, old-vine Shiraz, Grenache, and Mourvèdre. His wines are known for their intensity, complexity, and regional character. In 2016, his son Tim joined the family business, ushering in a new generation. Duval draws from decades of experience and a deep understanding of the Barossa to craft wines of place. He employs submerged-cap fermentation in open-top tanks for gentle extraction and favors minimal new oak to highlight old vine fruit purity. His wines—layered, structured, and restrained—stand out for their elegance and aging potential. With its warm climate and treasured old vines, the Barossa Valley yields fruit of great concentration and character. Thanks to long-standing grower relationships and deep regional knowledge, Duval has access to some of Barossa’s finest sites. The John Duval wines are a tribute to the land’s heritage and potential.