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Our flagship wine is dedicated to Ron’s Uncle, nicknamed “Darkie” Liebich for his jet black hair and this wine is
aptly named for its deep, inky hues and precocious dark berry fruit.
"The Darkie" is creating worldwide interest for its complex, intense, almost sticky fruit flavours. It represents the finest Barossa Shiraz in a style harkening back to the rich, intense character of wines of the fifties and sixties.
Varietal: 100% Shiraz.
Region: Rowland Flat, Barossa Valley.
Vineyard and Vinification:
Grown On CW's Block, planted by Clarence Walter “Darkie” Liebich in 1969, The vines suffer dead arm affliction causing
low yields of 1.5 tonne per acre, which greatly intensifies the fruit colour and flavour. Vines are hand-pruned and receive
minimal irrigation. The grapes were carefully monitored for ripeness and picked at the end of March at 15.7°Baume. Traditional
hand plunging of the skins, basket pressing and non-filtration, have achieved excellent colour & flavour extraction. Gentle oak
maturation of 12 months in 2/3 old and new American oak and 1/3 French Nevers oak hogsheads has added complexity and smoothness
to the intense ripe flavours.
Tasting Notes:
If there was ever an apt name for a wine, then “The Darkie” is it with a deep, inky red-black colour. Exhibiting intense plums,
liquorice and spice, this black beauty shows exceptional balance from the moderate 1.5 tonne per acre yield. The lingering sweet
fruity palate is perfectly integrated with the oak and hides the expected heat from high alcohol levels extremely well. Silky and seductive!
Alcohol: 15.5%.
Cellar: 15+ years.
Closure: Cork and screw cap.
Limited quantities of the 1996-2003 vintages also available
