2003 High Eden Shiraz

The 2003 vintage produced some superb wines from the vineyards of High Eden.

A dry, blistering summer was broken in late February by 78mm of steady rain, giving the parched vines a very welcome drink. By mid-March, a true autumn weather pattern was established, with cool nights and sunny days - ideal ripening conditions for producing the optimum varietal flavours for which High Eden wines are renowned.

The intense summer heat meant vintage at Eden Springs was a little earlier than usual, and yields below average. Quality, however, was a different matter.

The minimal cropping levels produced a wine of concentrated dark berry fruit flavours, with mulberry and hints of chocolate and spice. This is a rewarding wine, with the complexity, balance and length typical of cool-climate Shiraz grown at High Eden.

Drink now, with pasta or barbecued game.

2003 High Eden Shiraz - $18.90 per bottle/$170.10 per dozen.