In 2021, they embarked on a journey to reconnect with their cherished heritage, crafting the Vat 8 Shiraz Cabernet as a harmonious multi-regional blend. Their source of pride, the Shiraz, hails from the finest parcels nestled within the Tyrrell’s Estate ‘Ashmans’ property, while the Cabernet Sauvignon finds its home in the renowned McLaren Vale region. This year's vintage, a symphony of flavors, boasts a composition of 60% Shiraz and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon.
The stage for this remarkable vintage was set during the autumn and winter months of 2020 when a generational drought was finally broken by substantial, life-giving rainfall. This heralded an exceptional growing season for the 2021 vintage. A temperate summer ensured stress-free ripening, with a touch of warmth around Australia Day arriving precisely during the final stages of ripening. Early budburst and a later-than-normal harvest extended the hang time of the fruit, endowing it with delightful flavors harmonized by a naturally high acidity.
Following fermentation in stainless steel vats, both parcels embarked on separate maturation journeys before uniting in November 2021. The blended wine then continued its maturation in French oak barriques, culminating in a bottling ceremony in April 2022.
This rendition of the Great Australian Red celebrates the tradition of varietal blending to create a wine of unparalleled depth and finesse. Revel in the intense plum sweetness of the Shiraz, adorned with dark berry and chocolate nuances, while the Cabernet component bestows density and structure upon this exquisite creation. As a testament to its excellence, this wine proudly boasts an impressive collection of six gold medals earned on its remarkable journey.