The average winter rainfall this season was a welcome relief after 2003’s fourth-worst
drought in history. A relatively frost-free, wet, warm and thundery spring followed, creating
a natural ‘greenhouse’ effect. The vines grew vigorously, flowered and in general set a large
crop. December was the hottest for 10 years, however at the start of 2004 this weather
became mild and windy, and the vines thrived under virtually no heat stress. At the start of
February searing heat caused sunburn and significant crop losses. New records were broken
with South Australia experiencing its hottest day ever. Fortunately March returned the region
to glorious sunny days and cold dewy nights, with a couple of minor rain events, allowing
the fruit to ripen under near perfect conditions.

Enticing and intense aromas of ripe blackberry and blueberry fruits, with savoury nuances of dried herbs, bay leaf and cedary French oak.

The palate is rich, concentrated and powerful with wonderful depth of flavour, layers of texture and mature tannins for a long and elegant finish.

Deep red with crimson/violet hues.

Matured in new and seasoned French (55%) and American (45%) hogsheads for 18 months
prior to blending and bottling.

The vintage was almost as late as 2002 with good yields and excellent fruit quality.