Description
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 2011 demonstrates intricate balance and complexity.
On the nose, it exudes alluring aromas of blackberry, dark plum and black cherry that intermingle with subtle hints of vanilla, clove, and licorice.
On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with refined tannins that are perfectly integrated, providing a silky smoothness and a long, persistent finish.
The dark fruit flavors are complemented by notes of dark chocolate, coffee and a touch of leather that adds depth and complexity to the wine.
The oak aging enhances the wine’s structure and lends a subtle, smoky element to the wine’s overall character.
Overall, the Wendouree Shiraz 2011 is a sophisticated wine that would pair well with roasted meats, game, or aged cheeses.
Cedar, blackberry, red fruits, furniture polish and camphor chests, some coffee – drawing room wine, perhaps.
Medium bodied, firm, gum leaf flavours, black and red fruit.
A tense sort of wine, does a lot of frowning, it strikes me.
There’s an echo of iron tannin, softly chiming in the distance.
Perhaps a little too drying and mulchy on the finish, but I like, or maybe even love, its mineral character and aniseed vapour trail.
A wine of composition and integrity.
More to come.
– Gary Walsh, The Wine Front The Finer Details Style – Red Wine Varietal – Shiraz Country – Australia Region – Clare Valley, South Australia Vintage – 2011 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 13.7%
