2018 Shiraz Reserve

Wild Duck Creek Estate

$147.00

David (aka ‘Duck’) and Diana planted the first vines in 1974 and in 1979 named the first vineyard Alan’s Cabernet Vineyard, after Duck’s late father Alan. The Original Vineyard was planted in 1988 on land owned by Diana’s parents. Duck and Diana have three children – Liam, Ngaire and Bridie. Traditional winemaking methods including hand-picking, open fermentation, hand-plunging, basket-pressing, and long-term barrel-ageing are fostered, as is the use biodynamic principles on our own vineyards. Duck remains adamant however, that it’s still the vineyard and site selection especially, that dictate great wines.

Almost black with a dark purple hue. A selection of extraordinary fruit from our best shiraz vineyards – the ‘Original Vineyard’ and ‘Mia Mia Vineyard’ in the south, and the ‘Mt Pleasant Vineyard’ in the north. These parcels of fruit are hand selected, often only individual bunches taken from vines that have best withstood the harsh Heathcote summer.

The wine is bright, rich and seductive. 5% whole bunch here, adding a vibrant lift from the glass. The nose is all black pastel, charcoal, spice and red fruit compote. The palate has a wonderful electricity about it, with beautiful acids and a smooth finish. It’s full of violets, blue and black fruits, all alongside concentrated plum and chocolate. The mouth feel has real grip here, and is unlike any other wine in the line-up. The finish is long and framed by abundant tannins.

Heathcote, Victoria