The 2006 vintage shaped up as another high quality year but with only average yields in the Eden Valley. After a late break in mid June 2005, winter and spring rains were some of the best for years in the lead-up to flowering in early summer. Some varieties such as riesling and shiraz suffered more than others from poor set, leading to ‘hen and chicken’. While there was some damage in Eden Valley from frost, this had only minor impact on the overall yield; however, yields in most varieties were down by 15-20%. The summer was mild with southerly winds, reminiscent of 2002. Brief heat waves occurred in late January and mid February but were early enough not to affect quality, with only minor sunburn on exposed fruit.

Lifted blueberry and blackberry fruits on the nose with hints of crushed sage and confident, ripe herbal notes.

The plum and sage flavours follow through on the palate that is beautifully structured with fine-grained tannins and
a long, lush finish.

Deep crimson in colour with violet hues.

Matured in new French (65%) and American (35%) hogsheads for 21 months prior to blending and bottling.

Whites were nearly all picked by the end of March, an unusual situation.