Limestone Coast Shiraz
Viticulture
The fruit for this wine was sourced from vineyards in Padthaway, Coonawarra and Wrattonbully - all situated in the Limestone Coast region in the south-east corner South Australia. Dark, rich and full-bodied Shiraz fruit shows extra finesse, particularly when from vineyards grown on the rich red soils that overlay the region's hard limestone rock. For the 2006 vintage, a dry warm winter promoted good bud fruitfulness followed by a spring with limited frost concerns, which meant overall vine health was excellent. January was hot and dry, tempered by a cool February that steadied ripening. Warm weather at harvest ensured full flavor development and Shiraz fruit with rich flavors.
Vinification
The individual vineyard parcels of fruit were harvested then fermented separately in rotary and static fermenters. The juice gently moved over the skins to extract the rich colors and flavors from the skins. The wine was then pressed off the skins and matured for 18 months in new and seasoned French and American oak barrels.
Tasting Notes
The 2006 Greg Norman Estates Limestone Coast Shiraz is a vibrant dark crimson color. Perfumed dark plum, cherry and blueberry aromas are balanced with light cedar and vanillin oak nuances, and a touch of spice. A rounded, soft, silky textured palate with slightly savoury tannins and good length. Finishes with rich dark berry fruit and delicate spearmint and herbs. A beautifully textured, generous Australian Shiraz with rich berry fruit, a firm but rounded structure and pleasant persistence of flavors on the finish.
Winemaker
Andrew Hales
Cellaring
Excellent drinking now but will reward careful cellaring for three years.
Technical Details
Region/Country: Limestone Coast, Australia
Blend: 100% Shiraz
Alcohol: 14.5%
pH: 3.45
Total Acidity: 0.58 g/100ml
Ratings & Reviews
Wine Spectator (Jan. 31 - Feb. 28, 2009)
"Top Values of 2008: BE Australia."
Wine Spectator (October 15, 2008)
"Crisp in texture, with an overlay of earthy green olive character on a taut core of blackberry and tar flavors, persisting nicely on the juicy finish. Drink now through 2013." - Harvey Steiman
