The great Max Schubert liked to include up to 20% of Eden Valley wines in his red blend trials that went from the 1950s to the 1970s. Large plantings date to the 1970s and at least one company Tollana built an impressive portfolio around Eden valley reds and whites.
The first Parawatta red was a Shiraz 2011 though we have skipped vintages since we do not take grapes from this region, instead relying on being offered suitable parcels.
Merlot plantings date to the 1980s when the variety was first introduced to Australia. Merlot being one of the famous varieties of Bordeaux, France, is believed to produce better flavours in regions which have a cooler ripening cycle; hence the choice of the Eden Valley over the Barossa Valley where little is grown. Even so the wines from Eden Valley are richer than those from Margaret River and along the coastal strip of the Great South East of South Australia where there are extensive plantings.
This Parawatta is of exceptional quality and will rate highly at any tasting. Unlike other Parawattas this Merlot was made by Glug in partnership with another winemaker.