VINEYARD 
In 2022, we continued with the theme of looking to our past and made Vat 8 Shiraz Cabernet as a multi- regional blend. The Shiraz is sourced from some of the best parcels on the Ashmans property, with the Cabernet Sauvignon coming from McLaren Vale. The 2022 vintage blend is 70% Shiraz and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon.

VINTAGE CONDITIONS 
The 2022 vintage, in many ways, was a mirror of 2021. With above average rainfall in the winter months, the vines were set up perfectly for the growing season. Cooler temperatures over the summer period meant that there was no rush to begin harvest and we began about seven to ten days later than normal. All the fruit was in remarkable condition with intense fruit flavours coupled with high natural acidity.

WINEMAKER’S NOTES 
After fermentation in stainless steel vats, both parcels were matured separately before blending in November 2022. The blended wine then finished its maturation in French oak barriques until bottling in April 2023.

TASTING NOTES 
A modern interpretation of the Great Australian Red that respects the tradition of varietal blending to make a more rounded wine. The palate has varietal red fruit sweetness from the Shiraz with complex spice. The Cabernet component adds a blue fruit intensity and greater structural tannins which adds to the overall balance of the wine.