The 2001 season began with good winter and spring rains, although there were some isolated black frost pockets in October. Good set at flowering continued on to one of our hottest summers on record. Occasional timely thunderstorms arrived to maintain the humidity with a few millimetres of wonderful rain.

Alluring, sweet aromas of black and red currants are complemented by savoury hints of beef stock, cigar box, leather and dried herbs.

Concentrated dark berry and plum flavours on the entry are balanced with mid-palate nuances of smoked meats and charred French oak supports, fine acidity and mature tannins for a rich and elegant finish.

Brick red in colour.

Matured in new and seasoned French hogsheads for 18 months prior to blending and bottling.

Vintage began two to three weeks early but the heat had the potential to reduce flavours and produce high pHs and frighteningly low acids. With the arrival of milder autumnal weather came a natural rebalancing, providing only average yields but excellent whites and exceptional reds.

Bottle aged at Henschke Cellars in Keyneton for museum release.