The idea of Glug was to bring together many threads about the wine business, one being to become producers. Not only to make wines from the best-known varieties but to become familiar with many specialist varieties. Over decades a desire had formed to work with the heritage varieties Mataro and Grenache while also testing the potential of other often obscure varieties which likely had huge, hidden potential, of which one was Durif. In 2007 Glug began trialling blends of Shiraz and Durif and the first Brutus appeared with the triumphant 2008 vintage which was released in May, 2011.
As we learnt more about the varietal combination of Shiraz and Durif, the range of wines was extended to include cheaper products such as The Smithy and Pressman which appear from time to time. Barossa Shiraz is unique in its appeal and at times can overwhelm the mid-palate with intense. weighty fruit ‘sweetness’ and this we find is perfect for Durif which explodes much more on the far back palate. What a combination and what a wine.