Growing Conditions
The 1996 Eden Valley vintage was preceded by an average winter rainfall (after two drought years). A mild spring provided excellent flowering conditions and a mild, cool but windy summer allowed above average yields. Autumn was also cool and dry, providing an exceptionally long, slow ripening period which was very good for flavour development.
Nose
Lifted aromas of spicy plum, dark cherry and anise with savoury, earthy nuances of tar, clove and mint.
Palate
The palate is beautifully layered with sweet fruit and savoury spice, with velvety tannins and great length.
Appearance
Brick red in colour.
Aging
Matured in new and seasoned French and American hogsheads prior to blending and bottling.
Harvest
An exceptional vintage in yield and quality.
Mid-April.