Mount Ophir Estate is preparing to release its the first vintage under the ownership of Nick, Eliza and Angela Brown – a limited edition shiraz priced at $500 per bottle.

Mount Ophir Estate was established in Rutherglen in the late 19th century, but lay abandoned until it was bought by Eliza, Angela and Nick Brown in 2016. The trio are the owners of another historic Rutherglen estate, All Saints.

The 2019 Mount Ophir Estate Shiraz is a sophisticated wine originating from low-yielding fruit handpicked from a single vineyard spanning 0.5 hectares and made using traditional techniques.

Following a 12 day fermentation period, the wine has been basket pressed, before spending 19 months in three 225 litre French oak barrels by Saint-Martin and Boutes.

Winemaker Nick Brown describes the Shiraz as elegant in style, with a medium-bodied, concentrated palate. It offers red and blackberry characters, and soft but long tannins, with cellaring recommendation for up to 15 years. 

“We are so proud of the wine we have produced,” said Brown. “The 2019 Mount Ophir Estate Shiraz demonstrates our commitment to producing high-quality wines and brings together Rutherglen’s regional characteristics in a considered approach towards winemaking.”

Embracing a nurturing, sustainable philosophy, the vines at Mount Ophir Estate are encouraged to grow wild and healthy with minimal intervention. The red clay loam over quartz at Rutherglen, combined with its classic continental climate, lends a unique regional character to its wine. The grapes are only picked when unaffected by weather conditions, or natural disasters such as fire, and are tested before being bottled.

The 2019 Mount Ophir Shiraz will be released on Thursday, September 16. Expressions of interest can be made on mountophirestate.com.au/shiraz-waitlist for priority access. 

“We look forward to sharing the fruits of our labour with those who are as passionate about wine as we are,” Brown concluded.