Kaesler Stonehorse Shiraz 2008

In keeping with much of the Barossa, the story of Kaesler is one of old roots by German settlers and new investment in the booming late twentieth century wine trade. The first Kaesler family vineyards date back to the 1890s including the shiraz vines that form the core of today’s old vine offerings. Significant plantings were undertaken in the 1960s using old vine cuttings. Current day Kaesler has grown under investor/owners led by Winemaker Reid Bosward. As custodians of Kaesler, the extensive experience of winemakers Bosward and Stephen Dew along with head Viticulturist Nigel van der Zande shines through in the signature old vine trio including the Old Bastard Shiraz. Estate grown and made, these wines represent the pinnacle of Kaesler Shiraz from old vines and deep Barossa roots.

Surrounding the Kaesler winery is 28 hectares of vineyards. Soils are sandy clay loam, which in layman’s terms means we have sandy loam topsoil for about 25cm and then it goes into a thick potter’s clay layer for the next 30-40cm. From there it is clay with small amounts of limestone dispersed through­out. Moisture is retained well in these soils, which is ideal for our hot, dry weather. The average age of the Vineyard is in excess of 50 years, and all predate modern mechanization. Because of this all fruit is hand harvested and pruned by hand using traditional methods.

Kaesler also owns 9.21 hectares (22.8 acres) of vineyards in the Barossa sub region, Marananga. This area is on the western side of the region about 10 minutes’ drive from the Kaesler winery. The soils on this site have a profile of 10-15cm of sandy loam followed by clay with limestone thinly dispersed.The experienced vineyard managers take the modern approach to sustainable farming, in that soil health is paramount; we regularly monitor soil health and pursue natural means of soil care and protection. Estate-produced and local compost is used in our vineyards in combination with natural enhancers and mulch.