1998 Wirra Wirra R.S.W. Shiraz

The RSW Shiraz was named after a flamboyant personality and founder of Wirra Wirra. RSW stands for Robert Strangways Wigley amongst who’s accomplishments were his prowess at cricket.‘Wigley established a pug cottage among noble gum trees on the estate known as Wirra Wirra. By 1895, 125 acres of vines were planted, and a few years later he established his cellars. Wigley was also associated with Thomas Hardy at Bankside, and was producing a very fine full bodied Burgundy, some of which found its way into the English market.

“Robert Wigley had been a interstate cricketer and his retirement to country life gave a tremendous fillip to McLaren Vale cricket as regards enthusiasm, coaching and general proficiency. Pretty well every choice incident recalled by old players contains mention of Bob Wigley somewhere in the picture, and stories of his prowess and ready wit are legion.There was the day at Aldinga when Bob Wigley and Fred Wilson had been batting most successfully and in desperation the home team brought on a novice about whom nothing was known except that he was a fisherman named Fred. Wigley had been making runs very fast, and Fred sidled diffidently on to the field to attack the confident batsman. His first ball broke the wicket, and Wigley stared thunderstruck for a moment, and then, to the consternation of the ladies present, roared incredulously, “Bowled by a bloody mullet, by God!”.

Today Wirra Wirra continues this tradition of producing very full bodied Burgundy in his honour.

Tasting notes:Totally opaque, brick red crimson colour. Outstanding nose, with aroma of spice, liquorice allsorts, confectionary, blackcurrant and violet. The palate structure is very reflective of the year, showing immense concentration of flavour, totally mouthfilling. Flavours of blackpepper, spice, ripe plums, blackberries and cedar are enhanced by fine grained velvet smooth tannins. Perfect balance, with long aftertaste of ripe plums, liquorice and tar. Cellar 4-5 years.

RATING: 92/100

VALUE: XXXXX/5