The staple red of Australia is Shiraz which reaches its peak of expression in the Barossa Valley. There are rival districts like McLaren Vale, the Clare Valley, Langhorne Creek and the Hunter Valley, yet it is only the Barossa Valley that consistently produces such an extraordinary mid palate weight of powerful, fruit sweetness.
Can Shiraz then be enhanced with varieties to add another dimension? The answer is yes as both Grenache and Mataro introduce intriguing nuances.
Which brings us to Durif which was first brought to Australia in 1908 and has a high reputation in the Rutherglen region of Victoria. Durif is the result of a cross between Shiraz and Peloursin Noir which has an origin at high altitudes and is noted for an intensity of colour.
For decades we have noted how the Barossa brings out the best in Durif and further noted how an addition to Shiraz creates flavours that are the best of both varieties. We know this combination has strong appeal to red wine drinkers.