Description
Aroma
The nose is intense and complex, unfolding with rich aromas of black plum, blackberry, and dark chocolate. Underlying these core notes are elements of tobacco leaf, clove, a hint of ironstone, and lifted spice from the oak. The bouquet is further enhanced by subtle notes of bramble and violet, ensuring both depth and vibrancy.
Awards & Points
As of July 2025, there are no widely published awards or scores specific to the 2021 vintage of Campbells The Barkly Durif. However, this flagship wine for Campbells Wines is released only in exceptional vintages and consistently garners critical acclaim for its style and ageing potential. Campbells maintains a strong reputation as a leading producer in Rutherglen, with The Barkly recognized as one of the region’s benchmark Durifs.
Pairing
The Barkly Durif 2021 is ideally suited for hearty, flavoursome dishes, including:
- Slow-cooked beef short ribs or brisket
- Pepper-crusted venison or grilled lamb
- Rich meat stews and smoky barbecue fare
- Mushroom ragout or grilled eggplant with harissa
- Aged cheeses such as cheddar or gruyere
Its substantial structure and depth of flavour make it a perfect match for robust, savoury foods enjoyed in cooler weather or at long, leisurely meals.
This wine is built for cellaring and will evolve beautifully over 15 to 20 years, gaining even more complexity with age.
Campbells of Rutherglen stands as a pillar of the Australian wine story, with roots stretching back to 1870. Founded by John Campbell, who left the goldfields for the promise of Rutherglen’s soils, the estate has thrived for over 150 years through five generations of family custodianship. Today, the legacy continues with sisters Jane and Julie Campbell - Jane as Managing Director and Julie as Head Winemaker - carrying forward the hallmarks of evolution, innovation and unwavering quality. The family's enduring approach combines tradition with pioneering techniques, ensuring Campbells remains a beacon among Australia's historic wine clans.
Campbells Wines enjoys a decorated track record on both national and international stages. Their fortified wines, especially Rutherglen Muscat and Topaque, are regularly celebrated as benchmarks of the style. The estate’s Rare Merchant Prince Rutherglen Muscat achieved the prestigious “Best in Show” at the Decanter World Wine Awards - a rare feat from a global field of more than 16,500 wines. Their NV Rare Muscat has been honored as Best Australian Fortified Muscat at the esteemed Rutherglen Wine Show. Such awards underscore the estate’s consistent delivery of exceptional wines that speak of place, patience, and craftsmanship.
Campbells’ Rutherglen vineyard offers an impressive spectrum of wines. Their flagship Bobbie Burns Shiraz and The Barkly Durif lead a line-up of classic reds, while fortification mastery is on show in their acclaimed Muscats and Topaques - complex, matured, and world-renowned. The estate hasn’t rested on tradition alone; recent decades have seen the addition of Tempranillo, Roussanne, Viognier, and more, reflecting a spirit of innovation and a focus on contemporary tastes. Their portfolio also embraces whites and limited field blends, all shaped by the unique climate and soils of the Rutherglen region.
To visit Campbells is to engage with history in the glass. With its welcoming cellar door, impressive line-up of back vintages, and behind-the-scenes tours, Campbells of Rutherglen continues to celebrate the story of Australian wine—one bottle at a time.
