Winemaker Notes
The HJ Shiraz is dedicated to fourth generation Herbert 'HJ' Oliver – a lover and a fighter. He fought to win the affections of his sweetheart Marjorie, before serving in WWII. He then fought to realise his vision of seeing the Taranga property produce only high quality grapes. This commenced with his planting of the 'Old Block' Shiraz in 1948 – the same McLaren Vale vines that form the base of this reserve Shiraz today – one of McLaren Vale's best Shiraz.
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.