After a string of hot dry vintages 2011 was, in comparison, significantly cooler with higher rainfall. The season started off late and was further delayed by a very wet December soon after the vines had gone through flowering. In fact there was five times more rain than average for that month. Cool and moist conditions continued. These cool conditions enabled some really nice color development and helped retain nice high natural acids and low pH.

Our 2011 Shiraz is one we recommend for earlier enjoyment rather than long term cellaring. The wine is beautifully structured and balanced and simply delightful to consume. It is definitely a more elegant style than the previous 2010 vintage. The color has terrific purple & bright red hues. The nose oozes fresh red fruit of cherries and cranberries with a touch of anise and spice. The new oak maturation influence is subtle and helps brighten the fruit characters. The wine reminds me of the 2004 vintage for its immediate pleasure and drinkability.