Turkey Flat, 2006 Shiraz.

The Turkey Flat Vineyard boasts some of the oldest Shiraz vines in the world. Planted in 1847, these hard-working gnarled old vines are still producing fantastic grapes. They are dry grown with their roots extending metres into the soil in search of moisture.

Much of the credit for the best Shiraz made in the Barossa is due to old vines such as these. The fact that these vines still exist is largely due to a farsighted quarantine scheme, in which South Australia was spared the phylloxera outbreak which devastated the vineyards of Europe, America and subsequently parts of Australia in the late 1800’s.

The 2006 vintage was mild and long. We managed to escape serious heat waves to achieve a slow long ripening period. This produced wines that are floral, elegant and well structured. Cold soaking and extended time on skins has resulted in a firm tannin structure ensuring that this wine will improve with careful cellaring of up to 10 years.

The 2006 Shiraz is a glass-coating opaque purple colour with an aromatic array of pain grille, pencil lead, smoke, espresso, and blueberry. Layered on the palate, it has outstanding grip, savoury black fruit flavours, and a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. It will continue to unwind for several years and offer a drinking window extending from 2012-2022.

91 Points - Wine Advocate #181 Feb 2009.