Ben Glaetzer Amon-Ra Shiraz 2017
An exceptional old-vine Shiraz from Australia's renowned Barossa Valley, crafted by acclaimed winemaker Ben Glaetzer. The 2017 Amon-Ra combines remarkable concentration with freshness, elegance and beautifully structured tannins, offering a sophisticated expression of premium Australian Shiraz.
Awarded 96 points by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, this outstanding vintage delivers layers of dark berry fruit, liquorice, spice and savoury complexity, with impressive ageing potential.
Produced from 100% Shiraz grown in the Ebenezer district of the northern Barossa Valley, Amon-Ra draws upon low-yielding old vines that deliver fruit of exceptional concentration and intensity.
The vineyards contain vines approximately 50–130 years old, with their deep root systems and naturally restricted yields contributing to the wine's complexity and distinctive sense of place.
Its concentration is complemented by freshness and precision, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts of serious Australian Shiraz.
Australia
Barossa Valley
Shiraz
750ml
15%
2017Ben Glaetzer Amon-Ra Shiraz 2017 is a distinguished expression of Barossa Valley winemaking, produced from exceptionally old Shiraz vines in the celebrated Ebenezer district of South Australia.
Amon-Ra is the flagship wine of Glaetzer Wines, a family-owned producer recognised internationally for crafting powerful yet refined reds from some of the Barossa's most established vineyards.
The wine takes its name from the Egyptian sun god Amon-Ra, symbolising the importance of sunlight in nurturing the ancient vineyards from which this remarkable Shiraz originates. Its distinctive Eye of Horus label has become synonymous with the producer's uncompromising approach to quality.
The 2017 growing season was notably different from the warmer conditions often associated with the Barossa Valley. Generous winter rainfall replenished the vineyards, while relatively mild temperatures and a longer ripening period encouraged gradual flavour development.
These conditions allowed the Shiraz grapes to achieve excellent physiological ripeness while retaining freshness and natural acidity.
The resulting wines are recognised for their aromatic precision, balance and elegant structure, with the 2017 Amon-Ra displaying a particularly refined interpretation of the estate's characteristically concentrated style.
A powerful yet elegant, full-bodied Australian Shiraz with exceptional depth, refined structure and impressive persistence.
The 2017 vintage displays a slightly more restrained and classically balanced profile than some warmer Barossa vintages, with concentrated black fruit, savoury spice and finely integrated oak.
Firm, polished tannins and refreshing acidity provide excellent balance, allowing the wine to develop further complexity with bottle age.
- Appearance: Deep crimson-purple with an intense, almost opaque core.
- Nose: Expressive aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and ripe dark plum, complemented by liquorice, dark chocolate, black pepper and subtle earthy notes.
- Palate: Concentrated layers of dark berries and black cherry unfold alongside mocha, spice and savoury oak. The fruit is generous yet beautifully controlled, supported by fine acidity and structured tannins.
- Texture: Full-bodied and richly layered, with firm but polished tannins providing definition and balance.
- Finish: Long, persistent and complex, with lingering blackberry, dark chocolate, spice and subtle savoury undertones.
- Grilled Ribeye Steak: The wine's concentrated dark fruit and firm tannins complement richly marbled beef, particularly when chargrilled.
- Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder: Rosemary, garlic and slow-roasted lamb bring out the wine's savoury spice and rich fruit character.
- Braised Beef Short Ribs: The wine's structure and depth stand up beautifully to slow-cooked beef and rich reductions.
- Venison: An excellent partner for roasted venison, particularly when accompanied by blackberry or red wine sauces.
- Barbecued Beef Brisket: Smoky, slow-cooked meats complement the wine's dark fruit, spice and oak complexity.
- Mature Cheddar: Aged hard cheeses provide a satisfying contrast to the wine's tannins and concentrated flavours.
- Serving Temperature: 16–18°C. Avoid serving too warm, as this can emphasise the wine's alcohol and diminish its freshness.
- Decanting: Approximately 1–2 hours is recommended. As the wine develops with bottle age, decanting times can be adjusted according to its condition and personal preference.
- Glassware: A generous Bordeaux-style or full-bodied red wine glass will allow its complex aromas to develop.
- Drinking & Ageing: Approachable now with suitable aeration, while retaining the structure and concentration for further cellaring under appropriate conditions.
- Storage: Store horizontally in a cool, dark environment with stable temperatures, ideally around 12–14°C.
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