Mount Langi Ghiran is the name given to an ancient granitic outcrop, rising from the plains of Western Victoria, some 500 million years old. The soils of the foothills are sedimentary red clays, covered with a thin layer of weathered granitic sands caused by the erosion of the mountain itself.
Mount Langi Shiraz is a unique expression of the red Shiraz grape variety; with seasonal variation showing the hallmarks of this single vineyard wine. The vines used in the production of Mount Langi Shiraz are now forty years old and consistently produce excellent wine. As the vine gains age, it naturalises with the environment, striking an easy balance between each of its elemental parts: the structural, the vegetative and the reproductive. Vines with age are also more consistent through the seasons. Older vines tend to be lower yielding and so although the grapes are more expensive to grow, they consistently produce fruit with mature tannic structures and depth of flavour. The tannins, when extracted slowly and early in the ferment by cold soaking, are able to deliver that wonderful Shiraz 'rich - yet firm' texture.
The 2004 Mount Langi Shiraz is an exciting vintage with terrific expression of site. A complex wine showing blueberry, blackberry and classic Langi mixed spice. Dense and concentrated, structured tannins build on the palate. Balanced between power and elegance, the wine continues on the palate with ripe blueberry and blackberry fruits, hints of pepper and tight acidity adding length and definition. This is the first vintage to be bottled under screwcap.
Whitehaven wines was formed in 1993 by Greg and Sue White, and winemaker, Simon Waghorn. Their aim was to establish a winery in Marlborough producing premium quality varietal wines. To achieve this they have brought together a leading New Zealand winemaker, a dedicated group of growers, and a small modern winery facility where top quality fruit can receive the 'hands-on' treatment that i
