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  • 95

2006 Water Wheel Shiraz

Bendigo, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
$14. 99
Bottle
$179.88 Dozen
Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2011-2012)
ABV: 15.5%
Closure: Screw Cap

The Cumming family have farmed the Bendigo district for over 50 years and until recently, were one of the area’s top tomato producers. However, with the box price of tomatoes falling below production costs, the tomatoes have gone and made way for more plantings of cherries and vines. The original vineyards were planted in 1970 by the Pratt family who sold out to the Cumming family in 1989. At that stage, less than 20 acres were under vine. Today there are some 300 acres planted. Like much of Victoria, rainfall is an issue, with the average being a mere 430mm. This level of rainfall is insufficient to keep the vines stress free during the growing season and thus irrigation from the nearby Loddon River is required. Yields are capped at 3 tonnes per acre, which explains the concentration of flavour found in these wines. The winemaking is straightforward with fermentation taking place in open stainless steel fermenters. The finished wine is then matured in a combination of new and 1-2 year old American oak hogsheads for 9-12 months. From a wine lovers point of view, Water Wheel has consistently produced incredibly rich, flavour filled Shiraz at prices that are extremely modest. Wine maker Peter Cumming has always been aware of the need to retain a loyal following for his wines, given the cyclical nature of the wine industry. He has certainly delivered another bargain.

“Another Vintage & Yet Another Bargain: Water Wheel Consistently Deliver An Incredibly Rich, Flavour Filled Shiraz At A Price That Keeps You Coming Back.'

This is the most substantial Water Wheel Shiraz that we have seen in recent years. The drought conditions and shortage of water have resulted in a relatively firmly structured Water Wheel Shiraz, whilst still maintaining its generous fruit characteristics.

Opaque, black crimson colour with black crimson purple hue with excellent cling to the glass walls. Top note of liquorice, followed by blackberry, spice, vanilla and dark chocolate. The palate flavours are mouthfilling with strong black pepper, blackberry, black cherry and vanilla flavours. Fine dryish tannins which are perfectly balanced. Very long aftertaste of black cherry, blackberry, vanilla and spice.
Cellar 4-5 years (2011-2012)
Alc/Vol: 15.5%