The wine name 'Savitar' refers to a mythical dragon-like monster.

'Sui magna cauda caeli astra verrit eaque ad terram jecit'
'His great tail swept the stars from the sky and flung them to the earth'.

Vineyard
The Savitar Shiraz comes from the Chinese Block vineyard which is located in the Willunga district at the southern end of McLaren Vale. Parcels of Shiraz averaging 20 years of age are grown on rocky, skeletal soils in the northeast part of the vineyard. The fruit, which is handpicked 2 weeks later than G.A.M., yielded 1.9 tonnes an acre (33hl/ha). Picking commenced on 30th March 2005.

Vintage - 2005
After a reasonably wet winter, the vines burst well with good early shoot growth. Mild summer temperatures allowed canopies to be maintained right up until vintage time, with minimal irrigation, which resulted in an excellent and even ripening period. Overall the quality was good particularly for Cabernet and Shiraz.

Winemaking
Savitar was fermented on skins for 15 days at 28-32°C to soften the skins and release the juice. A slightly longer period on skins ensured a tighter overall structure. Only the best barrels are selected for the final Savitar blend. After pressing, the wine underwent partial barrel fermentation followed by natural malolactic fermentation before racking.

Tasting Note
Displays intense plum/garnet colour. The nose shows masses of smoky cedar, plums, cherry and dried herbs. Full bodied and opulent yet managing to maintatin supple, refined tannin and a clean, fresh finish.

Cellaring
Will age reliably for 10 to 15 years with careful cellaring.

Tasting Notes
Savitar | 2005 (208k)