The 2008 vintage in Eden Valley was preceded by an average rainfall and a mild and unusually frost-free spring with regular rainfall periods. Fine flowering weather meant good set despite the expectation that the previous drought year of 2007 would affect yields. The vines also showed surprisingly vigorous growth. A dry and hotter than average early summer caused smaller berry and bunch size. Although temperatures climbed to over 40C around New Year and in mid-February, the weather from mid-January through February was the coolest for 30 years, allowing amazing development of fruit colour, flavor and maturity. In early March South Australia suffered an unprecedented record heat wave of 15 days over 35C. The unexpected searing heat seemed never-ending and resulted in stressed vines, significant leaf drop, escalated sugar levels in the fruit and significant shrivel. A cool change followed, which brought relief; however it was too late for fruit still hanging, which had literally cooked on the vine.

Rich aromas of spicy plums, blackberries, anise and sage oil with hints of tar, pepper and cedar.

The intensely fruited palate is concentrated, rich and lush with excellent balance, velvety tannins and a long finish.

Deep red with violet hues.

Matured in 76% French (66% new, 34% seasoned) and 24% new American hogsheads for 21 months prior to blending and bottling.

Selective early morning handpicking, leaving shriveled fruit on the vines, gave the best quality, resulting in some amazing intensely coloured and flavoured reds, in particular shiraz. It was an easy season to practice organic viticulture and a season that demanded biodynamics to keep the vines healthy.