Perched on the ancient soils of Mengler’s Hill, Barr-Eden Estate is a storied vineyard site located at the southern edge of Eden Valley, a region revered for its elevated sites and cool-climate expressions. The estate has a long history dating back to the 1800s and is known for producing wines of elegance, complexity, and age-worthiness. Sitting at around 550 metres above sea level, the vineyard benefits from cold nights, slow ripening, and balanced natural acidity—ideal conditions for crafting fine Shiraz.

‘Dreams of Gold’ Shiraz is sourced entirely from the estate’s Mengler’s Hill vineyard. The 2023 vintage was shaped by a cooler growing season and extended ripening, which resulted in beautifully structured fruit with refined aromatics and vibrant acidity. The vineyard’s rocky, shallow soils over clay and fractured schist contribute to the wine’s mineral backbone and fine tannin profile.

In the winery, minimal intervention was key. The grapes were hand-harvested, destemmed without crushing, and fermented in open-top fermenters using indigenous yeasts. Gentle pump-overs were employed to ensure optimal extraction, followed by basket pressing to retain finesse and purity. The wine was then aged for 12 months in seasoned French oak barrels to preserve its fruit-driven character.

The resulting Shiraz is vivid and aromatic, with lifted notes of blackberry, mulberry, violets, and pepper spice. On the palate, it is finely textured and medium-bodied, revealing layers of dark fruit, graphite, and subtle oak influence. A line of bright acidity and silky tannins carry the wine to a persistent, elegant finish.

‘Dreams of Gold’ captures the high-country spirit of Eden Valley and reflects Barr-Eden’s commitment to site expression, restraint, and sustainable vineyard practice. This is a modern, cool-climate Shiraz that speaks clearly of place and season.