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 rielsing 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.

Developed, fragrant aromas of plum, chocolate and licorice accented with truffle and black pepper.

The sweet, juicy palate of blackcurrant and anise is punctuated with bursts of cracked pepper and complimented by nicely balanced acidity and long, fine tannins.

Crimson red in colour.

Matured in seasoned French hogsheads fro 15 months prior to blending and bottling.

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