Hentley Farm Clos Otto Shiraz 2014

In 2004, an unlikely kinship shared with an elderly German gentleman resulted in the Hentley Farm estate being extended with the purchase of a neighbouring vineyard, which shared the treasured natural amphitheatre of rolling hills that surround Hentley Farm and has resulted in our icon, the Clos Otto Shiraz.

Otto Kasper was a spritely 65 year-old engineer by training, and retired German border guard, when he and wife Gutwin moved to the Barossa Valley to pursue his dream of planting a vineyard in Australia.  After getting to know a community of like-minded Deutsch-speaking farmers in the area surrounding his small property in Seppeltsfield, he set about planting his beloved vineyard, with a markedly organic approach. Working from early in the morning til late in the night with a well practiced hand and antique machinery, he planted rootlings from mysterious origins and secret old clones. Whilst his eye may have occasionally been off when aligning the rows, his feel for where to plant what was definitely on

The top section of that elevated easterly aspect vineyard with its unique terroir, is the source of fruit for our Clos Otto Shiraz. Otto’s planting of Shiraz with a north – south orientation in shallow red clay loam overlying red plastic clay, ensure the vines enjoy long days of even sunlight and a micro climate that contribute to soft elegant tannins and a beautiful complex  aromatic and flavour profile.

In honour of Otto Kasper who had the foresight and passion to plant this amazing portion of our vineyard we first released the Clos Otto Shiraz in 2005 and a pedigree of excellence was rewarded in 2016 when it was recognised and accepted as one of the finest wine examples in our world renowned region with the awarding of The Barossa Trust Mark which recognises and celebrates excellence in food, wine and tourism offerings from across the Barossa region. It is a sign of authenticity; the mark of a genuine Barossa product or experience.

2014 – Solid rainfall through June and July filled the soil profile thus providing a great start to the growing season. This was followed by a dry and warmer than average spring, combined with unusually high winds at flowering. These conditions continued on through summer until the middle of February when a significant rainfall event signalled the end of summer and a return to mild days. This last minute reprieve from the heat was critical for the vintage, resulting in slowed ripening and therefore increased opportunity for flavour development. One of the most unique Barossa vintages in recent history, and in my opinion will prove to be one of Hentley Farm’s best.

Blueberry and blackberry lead this rich and alluring nose with jasmine flower, violets, truffle and star anise playing the supporting act. The palate shows all of that rich and vibrant primary black fruit you expect from the western Barossa combined with complexing elements of liquorice, olive and vanillin. The tannin structure is even and complete throughout, providing layers of support to the flavour profile and outstanding length. This wine combines freshness and vibrancy with richness and intensity, a balance of all things.