The 2016 Jim Barry Shiraz The Armagh is a remarkable red wine from Australia's Clare Valley region. With its deep red color and intense aromas, this wine demands attention from the moment it is poured into the glass. The nose is filled with ripe blackberries, dark plums, licorice, and sweetly spiced earth, creating a bold and brassy aroma profile that is both enticing and complex.

On the palate, The Armagh Shiraz delivers an incredible intensity and composure. It is a powerful and mouth-filling wine, with juicy flavors that explode on the tongue. The supple and long tannins provide structure and depth, while the heroically expressive fruit showcases the wine's exceptional quality. This wine is still very youthful and primary, but it already displays an impressive level of complexity and balance.

The critics agree on the outstanding quality of this wine. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a score of 96, noting its perfect balance and the array of deli meats, forest berries, exotic spice, and even a hint of red curry paste in its flavor profile. James Suckling awarded it an exceptional score of 99, praising its intensity, composure, and the potential for long-term aging.

Decanter also gave it a score of 99, describing it as a brilliant wine that demands attention and achieves effortless balance. James Halliday awarded it 96 points, highlighting its savoury and earthy character, as well as its originality. Vinous awarded it 97 points, noting its powerful and perfumed nose, finely detailed flavors, and superb balance. Wine Spectator gave it a score of 96, praising its intense mix of flavors and harmonious finish.

The 2016 Jim Barry Shiraz The Armagh is a wine of exceptional quality and character. It is a true expression of the Clare Valley terroir and showcases the skill and dedication of the Jim Barry winemaking team. This wine is ready to be enjoyed now but also has significant aging potential, making it a perfect addition to any wine collector's cellar.