The Tatiarra Vineyard is planted on the highly sought after Cambrian earth. The deeply red coloured soils are similar in appearance to Coonawarra's Terra Rossa, except that these soils have been formed from rocks that were hardened over 500,000,000 years ago. Although the actual soils are only 100,000,000 years old, they are rated as the oldest soils on earth. The property is littered with Jasper rock and greenstone, which contributes to the outstanding drainage ability of the vineyard. The original block consists of 10 acres of Shiraz planted in the early 1990's.
The Caravan of Dreams Shiraz takes its name from the aspirations of the vineyard's founder Bill Hepburn. The early years of preparing the soil and planting the vineyard were difficult, with the only accommodation on the site being a caravan, and nearby under the shade of a large green tree - a 'thunderbox'. Hepburn dreamed of producing an extraordinary wine, however, the cold winters in the caravan proved to be a strain on his health.
The wine is 'totally over the top' according to winemaker Ben Riggs. The low yielding vines (1.6 tonnes per acre) resulted in black opaque concentrate of Shiraz, and for the Caravan of Dreams Shiraz, only the fruit pressings were used, matured in new American oak. - ONLY 130 CASES PRODUCED! TASTING NOTE: Totally opaque black purple colour. Magnificent nose - one that heralds a wine of enormous concentration. Vanilla, violets, inky blackberry and distinct blackpepper fill the nostrils. The palate structure is monumental - another 'Duck Muck' with total concentrate of Shiraz. The blackpepper characteristics are very pronounced and are followed by strong liquorice and blackberry concentrate. The texture is velvet smooth, yet followed by very firm yet quite in order perfectly balanced tannins. Exceptionally long aftertaste. A giant wine - stocks are extremely limited.
Cellar 10-15+ years (2013-2018)
Alc/Vol: 15.5%Robert Parker's Review:
The 2002 Shiraz Pressings offers a gorgeous nose of flowers, black fruits, and minerals as well as medium to full body, and fine intensity, balance, and depth. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2014.
(Notes Sourced from Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate #155)
ROBERT PARKER'S RATING: 91+
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