The 'Reserve' Shiraz comes entirely from the 20 Rows block. It was planted in 1962 on the Langhorne Creek flood plain, which receives late winter and early spring flood waters from the Bremer River assisted by a series of channels and weirs. This is a special and unique region which has been producing wine since the mid 1800s. The vineyard area of Langhorne Creek today has expanded well outside the original flood plain land and the growing conditions in the new vineyards are different. One could make a good argument for the appellation Langhorne Creek to be used exclusively for the flood plain vineyards. The 20 Rows of vines are quite low yielding for the area at around 1.2-1.8 tons/acre. They are growing on their own roots as the area is free of phylloxera. The soil in this vineyard is a deep alluvial clay loam with an almost shimmering quality about it which produces the most beautiful small, black-colored and perfectly formed berries one could ever imagine. This possesses explosive aromatics, purity, texture, and richness. Intense but not too full-bodied with an elegance for a wine of such mass and intensity. The palate gives way to pure blueberry and blackberry fruit intermixed with smoke, graphite, and a touch of vanilla. 2013 Vintage Scores: "Dark and dense, with expressive flavors of licorice-accented dried blueberry and dark chocolate that slide enticingly into a long, ripe finish. Drink now through 2025." Wine Spectator: 94 Points
