Kaesler’s reputation in the Barossa Valley is inseparable from its extraordinary old-vine resources, and the Old Bastard Shiraz stands as the estate’s flagship. The fruit for this wine comes exclusively from vines planted in 1893, a living link to the earliest days of Barossa viticulture. These ancient, dry-grown vines produce exceptionally low yields, but the concentration and complexity they offer are unparalleled. The vineyard is managed with a commitment to tradition - minimal irrigation, hand harvesting, and a close eye on sustainable practices to preserve vine health and site integrity for future generations.

The 2017 vintage brought a cooler, more measured growing season, which favoured structure and freshness over sheer opulence. The fruit was hand-picked at peak ripeness, with careful bunch selection to ensure only the finest berries made it to the fermenters. Traditional open-top fermentation and gentle basket pressing preserved the wine’s natural intensity, before maturation in French oak barrels added further nuance and polish. The resulting wine is striking: deep and layered aromatics of blackberry, blueberry and spiced plum are complemented by notes of dark chocolate, licorice and anise. The palate is powerful but exceptionally balanced, with velvety tannins, lively acidity, and a savoury, persistent finish that lingers. Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz 2017 is a commanding expression of Barossa heritage - a wine of immense depth and character that captures both the legacy of its ancient vines and the finesse of modern, attentive winemaking.