Glaetzer Bishop Shiraz, Barossa Valley

Glaetzer Wines was established in 1995 to create limited quantities of benchmark reds, which reflect the quality and diversity of the Barossa Valley. The Glaetzer family have been in the Barossa Valley since 1888. 

Colin and Ben Glaetzer have a shared philosophy. Both firmly believe that great wines are made in the vineyard. Their belief in 'terroir' and an understanding of the ancient dry-grown vineyards in the renowned Ebenezer district of the Barossa is evident. Exceptional fruit from a loyal group of third and fourth generation Barossa grape growers is the backbone of Glaetzer wines. With minimal intervention, Colin and Ben make the unique, elegant wines which are regarded as classics and unmistakably Barossa Valley.

Bishop Shiraz is a full-bodied wine and made predominantly from 60-year-old vines in the Ebenezer sub-region of the Barossa Valley. It is made from fruit components which are up-front and generous, showing animated, youthful fruit characters.

The 2005 Glaetzer Bishop is dense plum/purple in colour, with crushed black pepper, liquorice and anise on the nose. The use of 2nd and 3rd year old oak has allowed the fruit profile to shine. The palate is rich and ripe yet maintains a seamless integrated tannin structure and a lively dryi finish. The 2005 shows more vibrant fruit than the 2004 - a reflection of the higher levels of aromatics from the 2005 vintage. The wine will age well for up to 6 to 8 years.

The name Bishop is the family name of Colin's wife Judith.

Variety: 100% Shiraz, average age of the vines: 60 years
Growing region: Barossa Valley, South Australia
Vinification: After initial fermentation in small, open vats, the wine is matured in 70% new French & 30% 2nd and 3rd use American hogshead for 14 months Yield: 2 ton per acre (0.8 ton per hectare)
Alcohol: 14.5%
pH: 3.53
Total Acidity: 6.85g/l
Residual sugar: 1.2g/l