Product Description:
A living relic from 1843—Barossa history in every glass. Langmeil’s The Freedom 1843 Shiraz is drawn from what is believed to be the world’s oldest surviving Shiraz vineyard, planted by Christian Auricht just a year after founding Langmeil village in the Barossa. This isn’t just a wine—it’s a direct link to Australia’s earliest viticultural heritage. Today, these 178-year-old vines continue to yield fruit of exceptional concentration and depth, standing as a powerful symbol of resilience and regional identity.
The 2022 vintage faced its challenges, including a brutal October hailstorm that wiped out swathes of the crop. But what remained delivered with force—rich, dark fruit, fine structure, and impeccable balance. The wine spent 26 months in French oak (46% new) to build detail, polish, and age-worthiness. Reclassified as 'Outstanding' in Langton’s Classification VII, this is a benchmark Barossa Shiraz that honours the land and those who have shaped it.
Best matched with deeply savoury dishes—lamb shanks, kangaroo with plum sauce, or aged cheeses. This is a wine made to cellar for decades, but its supple texture and layered spice make it irresistible now.
The Maker
Langmeil Winery, established in 1842, holds a significant place in the history of the Barossa Valley. Founded by Christian Auricht, a Prussian migrant who planted some of the region’s earliest vines, Langmeil’s rich heritage includes the oldest surviving Shiraz vineyard in the world. After changing hands several times, the winery was revitalised in 1996 by three local mates who brought it back to life with a focus on sustainability and quality. Today, Langmeil is a family-owned winery renowned for its premium wine production and commitment to preserving the Barossa’s winemaking traditions.
Langmeil's approach to winemaking is deeply rooted in the region’s history, working with old vine vineyards and producing wines that showcase the Barossa's distinct terroir. Their wines are made with care and respect for the land, incorporating both traditional methods and modern innovations to bring out the best of the Barossa’s unique characteristics.
Philosophy
Langmeil’s winemaking philosophy is centered around the belief that great wines come from great vineyards. The winery is dedicated to preserving the Barossa Valley's rich winemaking heritage by focusing on the protection of old and rare vineyards. Through organic farming practices and sustainable viticulture, Langmeil ensures that their wines express the unique terroirs of the region. Their approach combines traditional winemaking techniques with innovative methods to produce wines that are both classic and contemporary, rich in character, and capable of aging gracefully. With a deep respect for the land, Langmeil is committed to making wines that honour the history of the Barossa Valley while embracing its future.
The winery’s custodianship of historic vineyards, such as the Jackaman’s Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard, reflects their deep respect for the land and its history. Langmeil’s wines, like the Jackaman’s Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, are crafted to celebrate the Barossa’s unique blend of history, climate, and craftsmanship.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Dark and savoury
Lifted plum, cedar, bay leaf and clove, wrapped in sweet spice and a touch of dried herb.
PALATE
– Rich and textural
Full-bodied and ripe, with plush black fruits, allspice, and silky tannins bringing depth and drive.
FINISH
– Long and peppery
Persistent notes of fruit, oak and spice, tapering into a gently warming, pepper-laced finish.
Reviews & Accolades
“These are wines of great historical significance, not to mention quality, and should occupy a lofty place in the pantheon of Australian wine.” – Huon Hooke, The Real Review
Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Barossa, South Australia
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14.5%