Winemaker Notes
Planted in 1989, the vineyard is located on an excellent mix of red volcanic and loess soils. It is vertically trellised to optimise sunlight exposure. This unique site yields lively, expressive fruit, which shows its finely chiselled structure of crisp natural acidity in the resultant wines.
Vibrant ruby red. The nose is tightly structured with dark cherry and spice aromas melding with notes of white pepper and clove. The palate clearly demonstrates the cool climate nature of this wine with a refined character and well-defined structure. Initial flavours of dark cherry and plum evolve to display elements of Liquorice and Cinnamon. Fine-grained tannins and well-integrated French oak support the fruit and help ensure a long, savoury finish. Food Matches: Ideally suited to Lamb, Duck & Game, Cheese.
Professional Ratings
Though Syrah originated in the Rhône Valley of France, Australia is home to the oldest Syrah (called Shiraz here) vines on the planet. Found in Australia’s Barossa Valley, where phylloxera has never threated viticulture, these ancient vines are between 140 to 175 years old!
Having brought fame and merit to the country’s wine scene since the early 1950s, namely via the debut of Penfolds Grange, today Syrah (Shiraz) claims rank as the most widely planted grape in Australia. In fact, the amount of land dedicated to Shiraz in Australia is now almost equivalent to what it is in France. Australian Shiraz has its own personality with flavors and aromas of intense blackberry, fruitcake, menthol, tobacco leaf and umami. Conveniently one can find great Australian Shiraz at a variety of price points but the very best will be dense, gloriously complex and capable of long aging.