INTRODUCTION Protection of identity lies at the heart of the terroir story. It began as a post-revolutionary model of agriculture which would assist wealth creation and support a growing population. Origin and the productivity of the soil were key elements. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries these concepts were increasingly associated with fine wine production and assisted merchants to differentiate the produce of vignerons. The 1855 Bordeaux Classification epitomised this type of thinking and the development of hierarchies based on quality and sub-region. Delineations of vineyard areas, classifications, legislation, economics, community values and politics have all played their part in defining and defending the quality, character and price of wines. A regional narrative based on vineyard diversity, individuality of wines and cultural principles is the essence of fine wine. The Barossa Grounds Project cleverly avoids the politics of strict delineations yet promotes the broad agreement of winemakers that there are major sub-regional differences in all Barossa wines. Winemaking techniques and maturation handling also contribute greatly to style, quality and impact. Although Shiraz is the control variety in this study, most observers will agree that all varieties perform differently across sub-regions. The matrix of nature and nurture makes it impossible to fully unravel or explain the mystery of wine. Nonetheless the differences between vintages, vineyards, sub-regions and wine producers create a lovely contrast of styles in the Barossa. Shiraz Barossa Shiraz is the foundation of Australia’s ultra-fine wine market. Although it has a reputation for being full-bodied and chocolaty, it is far more nuanced than this, with sub-regional characters often showing through. The differences between Eden Valley (aromatic/elegant) and the western edge of the Barossa Valley (concentrated and vigorous) are the most contrasting. Although fruit quality and character are inevitably connected to vineyard site and vine age, the methods of winemaking and maturation in the end play a vital part in determining the outcome. For
Barossa 2022
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