Wendouree Shiraz 2013

The Wendouree, crafted by Tony and Lita Brady, remains a true representation of its origins since the vines were first planted by Alfred Percy Birks in 1893. Considered by many as one of Australia's greatest Shirazes, this wine is made from low-yielding, beautifully formed old vines, many of which are from the original plantings. The vineyard is managed with low-input viticulture and the winemaking process is laissez-faire, allowing the wine to truly speak of its place. Wendouree wines are renowned for their exceptional quality and rich heritage, with the celebrated Wendouree Shiraz standing out as a true gem. This wine is derived from the estate's original 1893 plantings, believed to be genetic material from the original James Busby collection. Located on an easterly ridge towards the northern edge of the Clare Valley, the unirrigated Wendouree vineyards have shallow, meagre soils with red loam over limestone. The low-yielding old shiraz vines produce small berries with thick skins and a high seed content, resulting in a wine with exceptional depth and complexity. Despite its reputation and heritage, there are remarkably few older bottles of Wendouree wines in circulation. This can be attributed to the way the wines were sold until 1974, when they were sold in bulk and bottled and marketed by merchants, resulting in blended and single varietal shiraz wines being almost never seen. Wendouree wines are a testament to the quality of the vineyards and the winemakers' dedication to crafting exceptional wines. The Wendouree Shiraz, in particular, showcases the unique terroir of the Clare Valley and the heritage of the original James Busby collection, making it a true standout among Australian wines.

The Clare Valley wine region is located in South Australia and is known for producing exceptional Riesling wines, as well as other varietals such as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Chardonnay. The region's vineyards are planted on shallow, meagre soils with red loam over limestone, contributing to the unique terroir of the wines. The climate is warm to hot in summers and cool in winters. The region is divided into five districts, each producing distinct wine styles. The Clare Valley has won countless international awards and is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

The Wendouree Shiraz 2013 is a standout vintage that epitomizes the quality of Clare Valley winemaking. On the nose, the wine exudes an enchanting bouquet of dark berries, plum and black cherry that blends perfectly with the subtle hints of licorice, vanilla, and oak spices. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, yet elegant, with a lush texture that showcases the perfect balance between the fruit and the tannins. Bold flavors of dark chocolate, blackberry and pepper are complemented by notes of leather, tobacco and earthy minerality. The aging in oak barrels lends a subtle smokiness and smoothness to the wine, resulting in a long, satisfying finish. The Wendouree Shiraz 2013 is a refined and complex wine that would pair well with hearty dishes like braised beef, rack of lamb or matured cheddar cheese.

Great colour and a sensational aroma of black fruits with some new oak evident, the palate rich and fleshy, dense and full-bodied, tannic and solid. Not minty. A powerful, concentrated, superb wine. - Huon Hooke, The Real Review, 96 Points 

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Clare Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2013
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%