2019 Brash Higgins 'SHZ' Shiraz 750ml

Made from 21 year old shiraz vines grown at the Organic Brash Higgins estate Omensetter Vineyard. 2019 in the Vale was a very warm year with very low yields. Low rainfall during Winter set the scene for a tricky year ahead. A big hailstorm on November 21 reduced yields and added a bit of drama, as did a blistering hot 46.6C day. Our proximity to the Gulf of St Vincent helped moderate the warm days and keep the grapes balanced and healthy. Vinted from hand selected fruit, the 2019 SHZ was comprised of 20% whole bunch fruit, and sent to open one ton fermenters for 3 weeks. Wild yeast did their job and then it all was gently basket pressed and sent to a mix of new and older French hogsheads for 20 months.

‘A wine built for the ages: the nose of the Brash SHZ is brooding with black plums, chorizo, blood orange zest, spicy paprika, nutmeg and liquorice. There’s a sweet earthy note that is typical of Omensetter Vineyard’s red clay. The palate is generous, well-balanced and smooth, the tannins integrated, and the finish long with complex, interweaving berry and spice notes.’ – Brad Hickey, Vinitor, 10 September 2021.