Wendouree Shiraz 2008

The Wendouree, crafted by Tony and Lita Brady, remains a true representation of its origins since the vines were first planted by Alfred Percy Birks in 1893. Considered by many as one of Australia's greatest Shirazes, this wine is made from low-yielding, beautifully formed old vines, many of which are from the original plantings. The vineyard is managed with low-input viticulture and the winemaking process is laissez-faire, allowing the wine to truly speak of its place. Wendouree wines are renowned for their exceptional quality and rich heritage, with the celebrated Wendouree Shiraz standing out as a true gem. This wine is derived from the estate's original 1893 plantings, believed to be genetic material from the original James Busby collection. Located on an easterly ridge towards the northern edge of the Clare Valley, the unirrigated Wendouree vineyards have shallow, meagre soils with red loam over limestone. The low-yielding old shiraz vines produce small berries with thick skins and a high seed content, resulting in a wine with exceptional depth and complexity. Despite its reputation and heritage, there are remarkably few older bottles of Wendouree wines in circulation. This can be attributed to the way the wines were sold until 1974, when they were sold in bulk and bottled and marketed by merchants, resulting in blended and single varietal shiraz wines being almost never seen. Wendouree wines are a testament to the quality of the vineyards and the winemakers' dedication to crafting exceptional wines. The Wendouree Shiraz, in particular, showcases the unique terroir of the Clare Valley and the heritage of the original James Busby collection, making it a true standout among Australian wines.

The Clare Valley wine region is located in South Australia and is known for producing exceptional Riesling wines, as well as other varietals such as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Chardonnay. The region's vineyards are planted on shallow, meagre soils with red loam over limestone, contributing to the unique terroir of the wines. The climate is warm to hot in summers and cool in winters. The region is divided into five districts, each producing distinct wine styles. The Clare Valley has won countless international awards and is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

The Wendouree Shiraz 2008 boasts a stunningly complex nose of blackberry, dark chocolate and a subtle hint of spice, accompanied by a touch of oak. On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-structured, with a firm tannin profile that is well-balanced by the wine's acidity. The flavor profile is dominated by dark fruit notes, including blackberry and plum, with a hint of spice and a long, lingering finish.

Medium crimson-purple; a complex bouquet with black fruits, spice and earth introduces a medium-bodied palate with great mouthfeel and even greater length; the flavours promised by the bouquet are all there in a synergistic display, asking the question is the sense of place or the purity of varietal expression the most admirable? The problem is the answer changes each time you come back to the wine. Three immaculate corks, perfectly inserted, give the '08 Wendourees a good chance of reaching at least half their natural life span. Drink by 2040. – James Halliday, Wine Companion, 96 points

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Clare Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2008
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%