TN: 1995 Campbells “The Barkly” (Rutherglen, Australia)

This wine is 100% old vine Durif and 14.5%. It was double decanted 30 minutes in advance to filter a light sediment. Dark strawberry red, the rim appears to be turning a lighter shade of almost terracotta. The nose is a mix of dry earth and eucalyptus, with a hint of cherry liquor as well. The palate is semi-sweet, almost like a Ripasso-style Valpolicella, with a hint of bitterness and a decent thread of acidity running through it. Currently rated at 86/100. I have tried all of the vintages from 1992-95 and my favourites are the 1992 and the 1994. They both appear to have greater depth and richness, which may be due to better vintage conditions.