The 2006 vintage shaped up as another high quality year but with only average yields in the Eden Valley and Adelaide Hills. 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 a 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.

A complex nose showing sweet, lifted aromas of red currants, plums, tobacco and violets with cedar, cigar box and anise notes.

The elegantly layered palate shows mulberry and sage oil flavours with good acidity and structure that adds finesse to the fine-grained tannins on the long finish.

Very deep opaque crimson in colour.

Matured in new French hogsheads for 21 months prior to blending and bottling.