The growing season in the Barossa was cool, until a series of hot spells in late January. There was then a return to cool conditions. After a dry winter, useful rains in November and December promoted good vine health. Rain in April presented problems only for the last parcels from late-ripening varieties. 2006 completed a succession of three excellent years in the Barossa.

The wine was made from Shiraz grapes grown in the Stockwell area of the northern Barossa, with a 4% portion of Grenache. Forty percent of the wine finished its fermentation in barrel, to gain greater complexity, softness and integration of oak flavours. The wine aged for two years in 20% new and 80% one year-old French and American oak barriques.

This is a full flavoured wine, typical of the generous Barossa style. The oak is prominent, but of high quality and well-handled. The wine is ready to drink and will soften further and develop more complexity until at least 2011.

Colour
Deep red, with hints of purple.

Nose
Rich and fragrant, with red fruits, spices, distinct cedary oak and hints of dried herbs. Development is beginning to add further complexity.

Structure / Palate
Full and ripe, with good depth of fruit. Firm tannins dry the finish. Good length.