Vinification
Parcels of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz were harvested from a range of suitable blocks during March and April. Fully ripened grapes are an important prerequisite of this style to ensure ripe fruit flavours and tannins. Some cooler sites were used for Cabernet Sauvignon to enhance this part of the blend profile. We look for rich, juicy Shiraz to add tannin and spice.

Individual vineyard blocks are fermented separately to judge each variety’s strength for our style of wine. We use a range of fermenter styles and techniques for complexity. Once the young wines are assessed, our favourite blend is produced that epitomises each variety. We then mature the wine with French and American oak for complexity and to highlight this classic Australian blend. We look for fruit and lifted aromatics from the Cabernet and palate richness and structure from the Shiraz.

Winemakers Comments
The 2005 vintage is regarded as a very ripe, strongly flavoured vintage with lots of colour, flavour, tannin and alcohol. It was one of the driest harvest periods on record with no rain during harvest. At this stage it is expected that the wines will have considerable life but with regional softness to allow early appreciation.

Tasting Notes
Excellent depth of colour with a distinct purple hue. Cabernet notes of cassis and mint meld well with blackberry and liquorice notes from the Shiraz. A touch of well integrated oak that imparts a light vanilla and cedar note adds interest. A well structured palate with fine tannins, and complex oak overlayed with ripe fruit characters typifies this uniquely Australian style.

Download PDF fact sheet