ICON Eric Stevens Purbrick Shiraz 2017 x 6
After many years of dry winters we received
average to above average rains through the 2016
winter and spring. The grapevines responded,
growing vivid green canopies and setting good
crop levels. A temperamental spring saw up and
down temperatures and there were many ‘Four
seasons in a day’ events, and warmish rainy days.
The latter caused anxiety for our vineyard
managers, with the potential for mildew to
develop. However good management and diligent
monitoring allowed us to keep the vineyard
disease free.
Summer seemed transient but we did have three
balmy weeks through March with ripening
continuing at a steady pace. The fine, albeit
slightly cooler, weather lingered on in April and
harvest continued steadily with very few issues
but thankful that the weather did hold.
“‘Best of a vintage’ is a mantle that this 2017
‘Eric Stevens Purbrick’ Shiraz wears very easily.
A symphony of deliciously ripe dark plum and
red berry fruits is joined by a background
chorus of black pepper, exotic spices and
liquorice notes.
Well integrated French oak and earthy tannins
give supporting structure to a wine of style and
distinction, presented under a replica 1870s
Tahbilk label. Further complexity will develop
out to 2030/2034.”
Established in 1860, Tahbilk is located in the
premium central Victorian region of Nagambie
Lakes. Purchased by Reginald Purbrick in 1925, his
son Eric took over management of Tahbilk in 1931.
Heading the winemaking for over 40 vintages until
handing over to his grandson Alister in 1978, Eric
was one of the early pioneers of varietal labelling
in Australia and continued to be a strong influence
in the direction of the Estate until his passing in
1991. Perhaps his greatest contribution to Tahbilk
was to create the ‘Special Bin’ Shiraz in 1948
which was to be made, and continues to be
made, from the best vats of a particular vintage.
In 1952 a ‘Special Bin’ Cabernet Sauvignon was
added to the range with both releases becoming
known as ‘Reserve’ in 1985.
Alister Purbrick ~ Fourth Generation
CEO and Winemaker
Vintage 2017 will be remembered as having a
traditional late start with the very even and steady
ripening resulting in distinct varietal flavours with
bright fruit and elegant, fine structures.
In recognition of his achievements, these ‘best of
a vintage’ wines now carry his name and
signature … Eric Stevens Purbrick.
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