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.
Wendouree Shiraz-Malbec 2016 is a wine that exudes the essence of a robust and structured “maturation style” wine.
The wine’s complex flavor profile boasts distinct notes of blackberry, plum and mulberry, with a menthol-like undertone that tantalizes the senses.
The tannins are fine, rusty and enduring, providing a long-lasting finish that is sure to impress.
The Shiraz component of this wine is sourced from the same vineyard plots, which include bush vine material, while the addition of parcels of very old vine Malbec adds further depth and complexity to the blend.
The wine is produced in limited quantities of no more than 4500 liters and is fermented in open fermenters before being aged for 12 months in new and used French oak barrels.
The wine’s vibrant color and bright, juicy plummy fruit with red berries are characteristic of Wendouree’s house style, which remains true to its origins and heritage.
The 50/50% blend from the 1919 and 1920 Eastern Vineyards is a testament to the winery’s unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.
The Wendouree Shiraz-Malbec 2016 is a wine that demands attention.
Its firm structure and lasting power make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a truly exceptional wine with a unique flavor profile.
Good wine this, and while I prefer the synergy of Cabernet and Malbec, Shiraz can fill the dance card competently.
Has something of a bloody character, along with rose and dried flowers, and for the poor Malbec perhaps a case of ‘Everyone has a plan until they’re punched in the face’ (by Shiraz) courtesy of Tyson (not Stelzer, but Mike).
Blackberry, a saline character here, certainly the steak and spice, camphor comes through too, and a bit of coffee and earth.
Supple but dry tannin.
Richness, depth, and a certain oomph.
Rugged rather than suave, but a very good wine it is.
More to come.
– Mike Bennie, The Wine Front, 94+ Points The Finer Details Style – Red Wine Varietal – Shiraz Malbec Country – Australia Region – Clare Valley, South Australia Vintage – 2016 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 13.6%
