Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz 2019
The first owners of the Kaesler vineyards were Silesian pioneers who came to the Barossa Valley in the 1840s and took up 96 acres in 1891. By 1893 they had planted the entire acreage with Shiraz, Grenache, Mataro (Mourvedre) and White Hermitage vines. Some of the gnarled dry-grown Shiraz still remains and provides the backbone of the intense wines they produce. The remaining vines mostly consisted of red and fortified varieties, some Grenache added in the 1930’s and more Shiraz planted in the 60’s and 70’s. These plantings accounting for some of the celebrated aged Shiraz we produce today.
The Old Bastard Shiraz is the essence of the Barossa Valley and is a true testament to the history, soils and place that is the Barossa. The oldest vineyards in the Old Vine Trio, planted in 1893, the Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz is one of Australia’s most collected wines and is considered a benchmark for premium Barossa Shiraz around the world.
Although the 2019 vintage was slightly challenging due to the dry winter followed by a spring frost, the overall quality was excellent. The dry spring and summer caused smaller bunches and berries, resulting in concentrated and dense flavours in the wine. Fruit was hand-picked and sourced from Shiraz vines planted in 1893. Matured in 60% new and the remainder in 1 and 2 year old Burgundian barriques. The wine making procedure is a closely guarded secret, with innovative techniques as yet revealed to new world wine. But what we can tell you, is it was harvested by hand at the crack of dawn, when there was enough light shinning through the crystals, looking like an amazing rainbow across the small vineyard. Fruit was hand-picked and sourced from Shiraz vines planted in 1893. The Old Bastard Shiraz ages beautifully, with the berry notes becoming more prominent over time. It has decades to give, cellar up to 20+ years.
The colour is a dense deep purple, with vibrant youthful hues. On the nose aromas of dark blackberry and blackcurrant fruit, with hints of chocolate and sweet spice. The palate is full bodied, yet elegant. The brilliant 2019 vintage has delivered a timeless and generous Old Bastard. The palate opens with an abundance of bright dark berries and tight chalky tannins with layers of mocha, coffee and chocolate. As always, the wine is completely in balance. The finish is long and firm. Although this wine is drinking well now, the tannins will continue to soften with age. The gift that keeps on giving.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Barossa Valley
Vintage - 2019
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 15%