The Australian Old Vine Collection Barossa Shiraz celebrates the Barossa’s magnificent old vine resources.

The region is home to what is believed to be the world’s oldest Shiraz, Mataro and Grenache vines growing on their own roots. Some of these vines remarkably date back to the 1840s. This is in part due to South Australia having strong biosecurity measures which has prevented the movement of Phylloxera - a potentially devasting vine aphid, which killed off much of Europe’s grapevines in the 1800s.

The Barossa has done a great deal of work to protect these ancient treasures, including forming its own Old Vine Charter. In 2009, the Barossa Old Vine Charter was instituted to register vineyards by age, so that older vines could be preserved, retained and promoted.

Our Australian Old Vine Collection Barossa Shiraz was sourced from original plantings at Light Pass, Angaston and Tanunda. Vine ages range from the late 1800s to the 1950s. The wine was vinified in small lot (0.5 - 1 tonne) open fermenters, with daily plunging or rack and return. It was matured for 24 months in new and matured French oak barrels.

Deep crimson in color, this 2018 Barossa Old Vine Shiraz exudes intense aromas of blackcurrant, blood plum, and spiced clove, underpinned by subtle notes of cedary oak. The palate reveals impressive depth, with a rich core of dark fruit complemented by sweet clove and layers of bitter chocolate. A long, smooth finish is carried by finely grained tannins, creating a wine of remarkable complexity and balance.