Vintage Conditions

The region received good early rains in autumn 2020 to replenish some moisture in the profiles, after coming off the driest back to back seasons ever experienced.  Winter rains were average and those vineyards that supplemented with irrigation to get moisture to depth set the vines up for spring growth and spring rains were above average. Temperatures in November were above average without any significant weather events paving the way for fantastic fruit set. January 24th was the only day that the region experienced temperature above 40ºC. Not surprisingly, the subsequent mild conditions meant bunch and berry size remained average, achieving a great balance between quality and quantity. A vintage that can be described as almost “perfect”, not only ideal sugar ripeness but also physiological ripeness for quality wine production.

Vineyard Selection
This fruit is sourced from the heart of Marananga on the renowned western ridge of the Barossa Valley, where the soils are predominantly red-brown loams over red clay, amidst shattered ironstone and quartz.

Winemaking
Daily sampling and tasting of the Cabernet and Shiraz grapes ensured that they were picked at optimal flavour ripeness. The Grapes were hand harvested and were destemmed and crushed into separate 5 tonne open top fermenter where twice daily pump overs were conducted to ensure maximum extraction of colour, flavour and tannins from the grape skins. At the conclusion of fermentation, the Cabernet Sauvignon underwent post ferment maceration on grape skins for 13 days before the wine was pressed to 100% new French oak hogshead barrels. The Shiraz was pressed 100% new American oak hogsheads for 19 months. Each barrel was tasted and careful selection took place before the final wine was blended. The wine is neither fined, nor filtered

Tasting Evaluation

Colour: Dark core verging on black with a crimson rim.

Aroma: Concentrated nose of plums, forest fruits, nutmeg, graphite, Dutch liquorice and olive tapenade .

Palate: Rich mouthfilling flavours with dusty tannins, blueberries, raspberries, blackcurrant and black raspberries.  The Shiraz provides density and fruit richness. Powdery Cabernet fruit tannins awash the surfaces of the mouth encasing the rich fruit core. Fine acid line delivers poise and focus. Flavour sensations persist long after the wine is consumed. This classic “Great Australian Red” style is synonymous with the Barossa Valley.