Chris Ringland, Dry Grown Barossa Ranges Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia ***On Allocation***, 2002

Producer Profile

Chris Ringland came from humble beginnings. Growing up in Auckland, in 1974 he decided to have a go at home winemaking after finding an old recipe book, and together with some schoolmates harvested his neighbours’ backyard vines.

Interested in learning more about the science and history of winemaking, in 1977 he applied to the university of Adelaide and was accepted on the oenology degree course at Roseworthy College. After graduating, Chris returned to New Zealand for a few vintages before travelling to California to gain more experience. Working for Rockford Wines in Barossa Valley for 18 vintages, he had the opportunity to purchase his own vineyard. Chris had already established a winemaking project, Three Rivers Shiraz, in 1989, utilising parcels of fruit purchased from various growers, In 1995 he was able to continue with Shiraz harvested from the 100-year-old vines on his Stone Chimney Creek property, high in the Barossa Ranges of Eden Valley. At this point he changed the name from Three Rivers to Chris Ringland Shiraz, and with the release of the 1998 vintage Chris Ringland Winery was born.

Viticulture

Sourced from a 1.5-hectare dry-grown, ungrafted vineyard planted in 1910 on the edge of the Barossa Valley, technically within Eden Valley. The vines grow in shallow, granitic sandy loam soils that yield low quantities of thick-skinned grapes, imparting intense colour and concentration to the wine. The dry farming methods encourage deep root development and resilience.

Winemaking

Fermentation is carried out in open vats with indigenous yeasts, followed by extended ageing of 48 months in new French oak hogsheads. This lengthy oak maturation integrates seamlessly with the fruit, enhancing complexity and structure without overpowering the vibrant core of the wine.

Tasting Note

The 2002 vintage reveals a deep ruby colour with complex aromas of black cherry, dried herbs, leather, and subtle smoky nuances. The palate is elegant yet powerful, showcasing concentrated dark fruit, earthy undertones, and well-integrated fine tannins. It offers a lingering finish with notes of spice and a touch of savoury complexity from careful maturation.

Food Matching

Ideal with richly flavoured dishes such as char-grilled ribeye, spiced venison, or slow-roasted lamb shoulder.