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 the 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.

Lifted aromas of sweet ripe mulberry, plum and cedar; complex with violets, fruit cake and anise.

The palate is juicy, sweet and lush with good acid, layers of rolling fine-grained tannins and great length.

Deep crimson in colour.

Asian salad of seared pigeon breast.

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