Current Release

This wine is the first Barossa Shiraz to be included in The Ravensvale Group Portfolio. It is my own label and those who know me will have no hesitation in thinking the name is perfect. I wanted a full blown Barossa Shiraz that exemplified this famous Australian wine region. Only five barrels of the 2005 have been produced. The fruit is from a well respected grower in the picturesque area of Krondoff.

The vineyard is located at Krondoff with red schiste soil containing significant deposits of mica – very much like Cote Rotie. The vines are 15 years old from an old unidentified Barossa clone. This Barossa sub region is renown for growing some of the valley’s most prestigious Shiraz. In 2005 vintage conditions were exceptional with the Barossa experiencing one of the mildest growing seasons on record. The yield was under two tons to the acre and the quality of the fruit was outstanding – small berries with deep color and concentrated flavors. The vineyard was hand-picked in mid March at 15 baume. The fruit was fermented in open vats and then matured for 22 months in new French oak hogsheads with one second use American barrel and one second use French barrel to add complexity.

The color is a deep crimson bordering on black with a purple rim. The full blown bouquet exudes lovely fresh spicy blackberry and mulberry fruit aromas with undertones of pepper and cedary oak. This wine is showing all the hallmarks of a great Barossa Shiraz. It is rich to the point of opulent with silky tannins with an irresistible mouthfeel and a finish with great length. While the oak influence is strong, it is supported by fruit of great strength and power – it is heady with black cherry, dark plums, sweet juicy mulberries and the typical Barossa dark chocolate overtones. This wine will reward with cellaring of 8 to 10 years. A perfect wine to serve alongside a rich hearty meat dish.

Alcohol: 15.5%

pH: 3.30

TA: 67.65/l

R/Sugar: 0.4g/l

Cases Produced: 166

90 Butting Heads is a negociant label owned by importer Jane Delaney. Her first Barossa Shiraz, sourced from a single vineyard at Krondorf, is a success. The 2005 Shiraz is opaque purple/black. It has a fragrant bouquet of pain grille, spice box, espresso, pepper, and blueberry. This is followed by a full-bodied, dense, structured wine with excellent concentration. At present the wine is monolithic, but 5-6 years in the cellar may result in additional complexity. Wine Advocate

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