Wendouree Shiraz 2019

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.

Wendouree Shiraz 2019 is a wine that boasts a complex and layered flavor profile, with deep red and black fruit notes mingling with savory, earthy undertones. On the nose this wine offers aromas of black cherry, plum and dark chocolate, accented with subtle notes of black pepper and tobacco. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with ripe tannins and a velvety mouthfeel. Flavors of blackberry, black currant and dark chocolate dominate on the palate, with hints of dusty earth and smoke adding depth and complexity. The finish is long and lingering, with a pleasing balance of acidity and tannin. The Wendouree Shiraz 2019 is a wine of great character and depth, with the ability to age gracefully for many years to come.

Cedar oak shows its hand very clearly this vintage, so much so, almost Grange-like, and yet, there’s a compelling dried red fruit intensity that gets me past that. Mint, gum nuts, lemon myrtle and liquorice, a fair dusting of pepper, mocha and poached strawberry. And while tannin has a bark-like grip, or maybe peanut skin dryness,  I reckon succulence of fruit wins the day here. Something of a ferrous quality, and quiet old vine power, a tacky wet paint quality to it, and while it’s overtly minty and regional in a way, I find it so engaging, and unique. Quality wine, and so old school. - Gary Walsh, The Wine Front, 95 Points 

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Clare Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2019
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.6%
Closure - Screw Cap