BURGE FAMILY WINEMAKERS DRAYCOTT THE GRATEFUL RESERVE 1999 SHIRAZ

Winemaker Rick Burge is a brilliant artisan who does nearly everything by hand. Five years ago, Barossa wines were considered a novelty, however today they receive some of the highest accolades from critics. The Barossa’s climate is perfect for producing opulent wines. It’s soils are some of the planets oldest, with ancient red mineral deposits streaking the vineyards and adding unique flavor to the grapes. “Rick Burge, whom I visited on my trip to Barossa last year, manages to keep prices in check for his sumptuous wines, which offer extraordinarily pure fruit, and the warmth and intensity of the Barossa. Readers should not confuse these wines with those from Barossa’s Grant Burge. The latter offerings are competent but commercial, simple efforts.”