Kaesler, one of the Barossa Valley’s oldest estates, is renowned for its uncompromising focus on heritage vineyards, and nowhere is this legacy more evident than in the Old Bastard Shiraz. Sourced from a single block planted in 1893, these ancient, dry-grown vines yield minuscule crops of intensely flavoured fruit. The estate team is committed to minimal intervention and sustainable farming, ensuring that each vintage expresses the individuality of the site and the resilience of the old vines.

In 2016, a warm and favourable growing season set the stage for exceptional fruit quality. The grapes were hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, fermented in open vats using traditional methods, and basket pressed for gentle extraction. Maturation took place in a carefully selected mix of new and seasoned French oak, building complexity without overshadowing the natural power of the fruit. The finished wine displays a commanding presence: aromas of black plum, dark cherry, mocha, and cracked pepper lead into a dense, richly textured palate supported by firm tannins and vibrant acidity. Hints of dark chocolate, savoury spice, and a persistent mineral finish reflect both the vineyard’s pedigree and Kaesler’s experienced hand in the cellar. The Old Bastard Shiraz 2016 stands as a benchmark for Barossa Shiraz, delivering profound intensity and structure while honouring the region’s heritage and the remarkable age of its vines.