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Season
A warm, dry spring followed by a hot summer brought the earliest budburst and harvest on record. It was a season that demanded precision, yet the elevated Frankland River site held its composure — producing small, concentrated berries of exceptional depth and balance.
Vineyard
Set across a hilltop plateau that falls gently northward, this dry-grown block benefits from strong airflow and natural drainage. Rows run south to north, ensuring even light and protection from heat extremes and sun on the western side being provided with seasonally applied shade cloth. The vines are unirrigated and naturally low yielding, their fruit handpicked early to capture freshness and structure. The site’s position over the crest brings both intensity and elegance — a hallmark of great Frankland River Shiraz.
Vinification
Two ferments built the wine’s character: the first (50% of the volume) being whole bunches wild-fermented with gentle foot stomping to introduce fine tannin and lift; and the 2nd using destemmed whole berries, wild-fermented without stalks for purity and perfume. Each batch was pressed separately to a mix of seasoned French oak puncheons, hogsheads, and a single stainless-steel barrel. Extended maturation brought harmony and depth without losing vibrancy.
Style
A poised and complex Shiraz showing layers of blueberry, star anise, and sarsaparilla. Rich yet refined, it balances concentration with savoury nuance and fine, persistent tannins — a true expression of Frankland River.
Cellar
Beautifully composed on release, it will evolve gracefully for up to 20 years.