Best colour of the '08s, brightest purple-crimson; potent aromas of blackcurrant and plum lead into a palate of near-explosive intensity of flavour, blackcurrant sweeping all before it, with a magical twist of dried herb on the finish; the tannins are very evident, but are perfectly balanced, simply adding length and texture. A wonderful example of the power of old vines to stand up to a vintage such as '08.
97 points, Wine Companion (March 2011)
The Clare Valley
The Clare Valley is located two hours north of Adelaide in the Mount Lofty ranges. The region was settled by John Horrocks who encouraged his servant James Green to plant the first vines in 1842. Climate in the Clare Valley is continental with hot summers, cold winters and low rainfall that necessitates supplementary irrigation. Soils in the valley are predominantly red brown loams over shale, permitting excellent drainage. Many of the best vineyards are located at higher elevations of 400-500m on sites that take advantage of the cool breezes that funnel up the corrugation of hills from the south. The Clare Valley is renowned for its zesty fruit-pure Rieslings particularly from the sub-regions of Polish Hill and Watervale. The region also produces intense age-worthy sturdy reds from Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.
