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Tasting Notes
This special release from the Schrapel Family Selection commemorates the dedication of Lawrence & Edna Schrapel who, after many years of toiling in the vineyards, passed the stewardship of the property to their sons, the present winemakers of Bethany wines, Geoffrey & Robert. LE Reserve Shiraz expresses to the fullest the true characteristics of Shiraz grown on the foothills of the Barossa. The fresh, vibrant aromas of wild barriers, clove and spice carry onto the full flavoured palate. Tastes of rich varietal flavours of blueberries and plums balanced with fine grain tannins and natural acidity. Enjoy with slow roasted Moroccan Lamb or at the end of your meal with a chocolate, blue berry ganache.
Vineyard Notes
The Shiraz fruit was sourced from the Schrapel family vineyards and neighbouring vineyards in the Barossa foothills. Traditional viticultural practices were applied across the vineyards with the yield from old vines 6.25t/Ha. The vineyards were hand pruned to 70 buds per vine to limit yield and ensure that only fruit of the finest quality was used in the making of this wine.
Vintage Report
The Barossa Valley confronted one of the earliest, smallest and quickest vintages in 2013, but quality is outstanding. Rainfall in 2012 was the fifth driest on record, leading to early irrigation scheduling to give the vines the best possible start to the season. A cooler than average January followed by a warm February sped things up in the vineyard, leading to an early harvest. Vintage started at Bethany on January 31 with Semillon first across the weighbridge and finishing on the March 19 just before a refreshing down pour of 16mm. Despite low yields, quality is strong across the board with reds showing intense flavours, good colour and firm tannins, and whites retaining natural acidity and great flavours.
Winemaking Report
Grapes received and crushed immediately after the morning harvest and then fermented for 7-14 days on skins to extract colour and flavour. The juice was pumped over skins twice daily until the desired colour and weight was reached. After malolactic fermentation, the wine was transferred into new French oak barrels for 12 months to age.
Awards
SILVER 2015 San Francisco International Wine Competition / BRONZE 2015 International Wine Challenge / BRONZE 2015 Decanter World Wine Awards / BRONZE 2015 Great Australian Shiraz Challenge
Features
Pack size: 6
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