2019 Ben Potts Fiddle’s Block Shiraz, Langhorne Creek

Despite the Fiddle's Block name, the grapes come from multiple Langhorne Creek vineyards aged 15–80 years; the focus on selection of clones including very old sources; hand or machine picked; small concrete or stainless-steel open fermenters; various vinification including part barrel fermented, part extended maceration. Delicious shiraz showing the sense of place to perfection; small red and black berry fruits on a medium-bodied framework of spicy, savoury fruit and oak tannins; lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Trophy Best Shiraz at Langhorne Creek Wine Show ’21.

96 points Special Value James Halliday winecompanion.com.au

The Potts family has resided in Langhorne Creek since 1850 growing grapes and producing wine, Ben represents the sixth generation of winemakers in the family. The family vineyards were an integral part of Ben’s childhood. He grew up in and around them, and some of his favourite memories involve them.

As a young child Ben can clearly remember helping his Father, viticulturalist Bill Potts, in the vineyard or jumping in the mud puddles left by the floodwaters between the rows of old cabernet and shiraz. He even made a little pocket money grape picking, joining the hand gangs after school and earning 20 cents a bucket for his efforts! A passion for Langhorne Creek, grapes and wine were a natural progression for Ben. Working along side his Grandfather Lenny and Father Bill, Ben’s first vintage was in 2002. Ben believes it’s his family’s knowledge and passion for the vineyard over the past century that is the core ingredient of Ben Potts Wines.

The Fiddles Block Shiraz is deep red-purple in colour with a complex & intense nose of black rose petals, red and black berry fruits, plums, tar, licorice, chocolate, dried herbs and some spice from the oak.The palate is full bodied, rich and concentrated, whilst still retaining balance and freshness. The flavour is supported by fine ripe tannin that gives a long silky mouth feel.