The Legacy of Old Vines: Crafting Award-Winning Shiraz in the Hunter Valley

How Old Are the Vines?

Our vineyard was planted in the early 1980s, and now these vines are approaching 40 years of production. These decades have allowed the vines to mature and deeply root themselves in the soil, contributing to the unique character of our wines.

What Is It About the Older Vines That Improves the Flavour in the Wine?

Old grapevines, often referred to as "old vines," are a true treasure in winemaking. As these vines age, their yield naturally decreases, leading to a smaller crop with more concentrated flavours. The smaller berries produced by older vines have a higher skin-to-juice ratio, enhancing the wine's complexity, tannins, and colour. This results in wines with greater depth, intensity, and complexity—qualities that are signature to our brand.

Can You Explain the Role of Root Depth and Terroir Expression in Old Vines?

Over time, the roots of old vines grow deeper into the soil, reaching layers that younger vines can’t access. This deep root system allows the vine to express the full characteristics of the terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and geography. This connection to the land gives our wines a distinct sense of place, reflecting the essence of the Hunter Valley in every bottle.

Are the Vines Dry Grown or Irrigated?

Our vineyards are equipped with drip irrigation systems, but we believe in minimal intervention. We only irrigate when natural rainfall is insufficient during droughts or before extreme heat. This approach ensures the vines receive just the right amount of water, preserving the natural balance of the vineyard.

What Can You Tell Us About the Soil and the Vineyard's Aspect?

Our old vines are planted in clay soils with limestone marl at depth, providing a robust foundation for growth. Positioned on a gentle north-facing slope with rows oriented east/west, our vineyard benefits from optimal sunlight exposure. These conditions contribute to the quality and consistency of the grapes, which are essential for crafting our exceptional Shiraz.

Hunter Has a Long History with Shiraz. Why Do You Think the Region Works So Well for This Variety?

The Hunter Valley’s warm, humid climate is ideal for Shiraz. The warmth allows the grapes to ripen fully, developing rich fruit flavours, while the region’s humidity and afternoon cloud cover prevent excessive heat stress. This balance results in complex flavours and soft, velvety tannins. With a deep-rooted history in Shiraz, the Hunter Valley produces wines that are elegant, refined, and distinctly different from other Australian regions—qualities that define our Shiraz.

How Do You Go About Making Shiraz from the Old Vines? Are There Any Major Differences Compared to Younger Vines?

Crafting Shiraz from old vines is a meticulous process. We carefully monitor harvest timing, as grapes from old vines ripen more evenly and exhibit a wide range of flavours when picked at the perfect moment. Hand-harvesting ensures that only the best clusters are selected, preserving the quality and integrity of the fruit.

Throughout the winemaking process, we handle the grapes with utmost care to avoid extracting harsh tannins or losing delicate flavours. We ferment the wine in small batches using traditional open fermenters and age it in French oak barrels for 12 months. By following a minimal intervention approach, we allow the natural qualities of the fruit to shine through, resulting in a wine that truly expresses the unique character of our old vines.

Do the Vines Need Any Extra Care Due to Their Age?

Yes, our old vines require specialised care to maintain their health and productivity. As they age, they can deplete certain nutrients from the soil, so managing soil health is crucial. Regular soil testing and the addition of organic matter or specific nutrients may be necessary to keep the vines healthy. Additionally, old vines can be more susceptible to certain diseases and pests, requiring regular monitoring and targeted treatments to protect these valuable vines.