The Wines

2007 Barossa Valley Syrah

Our 2007 Syrah comes from long established vines at the Kalleske Koonunga Vineyard in the north western Barossa Valley. These low cropping, mature vines produce black fruit with intense flavours, elegant structure and fine tannins.

The Koonunga Shiraz was hand picked, destemmed and gently crushed to an open fermenter. We then added 5% whole bunches of ripe Viognier which adds lift and tannin structure to this classic Rhone blend. Co-fermenting the Shiraz and Viognier together is by far the best method for this style, as the Viognier characters integrate seamlessly with the Shiraz, rather than sitting on top of it. This serves to intensify the colour, meld the tannins of the two varieties, and add a wonderful complexity. Hand pumpovers twice daily ensured maximum colour and flavour extraction during fermentation, with the ferment temperature controlled to retain the vibrant fruit character. The wine was gently basket pressed to new and seasoned French and American oak Hogsheads and Barriques.

Tasting notes

The colour is a glossy deep red/black core with vibrant red hues. The nose is lifted and aromatic, displaying blueberry, black cherry, tar, floral notes of lavender with a mere hint of apricot marmalade. The palate is fresh, vibrant, powerful and elegant with sweet dark fruits flooding the palate. The wine is supremely balanced with wonderful length and persistence, finishing with soft, silky, sexy tannins. The wine has the structure and balance to be cellared for up to 10 years.

Reviews

2007 Barossa Valley Syrah - 92/100* - James Halliday – February Tasting Notes
"An opulent wine in every respect… Rich Blackberry, Plum and dark Chocolate flavours fill the supple palate. Screwcap. 14.5% Alc. Drink 2020"