Growing Conditions
The latter part of spring led into one of the hottest summers on record, with virtually no rain. The drought conditions resulted in smaller berry size, producing spicy, dark intense reds. Tropical cyclones Elaine and Vance brought unseasonal rains in mid-March, causing widespread botrytis problems requiring careful handpicking. 1999 proved to be another challenging vintage for Eden Valley although the final quality results made it worthwhile.
Nose
Alluring aromas of briary dark forest berries and cassis with savoury nuances of anise, beef stock and dried herbs.
Palate
Sweet, rich dark fruit, blackcurrants and aniseed flavours dance across the palate, between layers of fine-grained mature tannins, for a concentrated and beautifully long finish.
Appearance
Deep red with brick red hues.
Aging
Matured in new and seasoned French hogsheads for 18 months prior to blending and bottling.
Bottling
Bottle aged at Henschke Cellars in Keyneton for museum release.