Turkey Flat Shiraz 2021
The Wine
Turkey Flat Vineyard is renowned for having some of the world's oldest Shiraz vines, planted in 1847. These venerable, gnarled vines continue to yield exceptional grapes. They thrive in dry conditions, with roots reaching deep into the earth for moisture. The superior quality of Barossa's Shiraz owes much to these ancient vines. Their survival can be attributed to a visionary quarantine program that protected South Australia from the phylloxera epidemic that ravaged vineyards across Europe, America, and later, parts of Australia in the late 19th century.
The Details
Variety - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - South Australia
Sub Region - Barossa Valley
Extra - Screwcap
Year - 2021
Volume - 750ml
About the Wine Maker 
Turkey Flat got its name from Prussian settlers in Bethany and Langmeil in the early 1840s. They observed a large native bird, the Plains Bustard or Ardeotis australis, frequenting the fertile flats near the lower end of Tanunda Creek, leading them to name the site 'Turkey Flat.' Although the bird is now rarely seen, its significance and the original landscape it inhabited are commemorated through the artwork on their wine labels. This landscape nurtures their vines, enabling the creation of distinctive, character-rich wines.
In 1847, Johann Fiedler planted the first Shiraz vines at Turkey Flat, becoming one of the pioneering Prussian Lutherans to produce wine in the Barossa. He was recognized for experimenting with various grape varieties to determine those best suited to the new settlement's viticultural potential. In 1851, a journalist noted that Turkey Flat had an experimental vineyard with 72 different varieties to ascertain which were most compatible with the local environment.
Since the 1860s, the Schulz family has been the stewards of Turkey Flat, upholding Fiedler's legacy by cultivating vines and crafting wines that harmonize with the landscape.
Currently, Christie Schulz represents the fourth generation of the Schulz family to oversee this extraordinary estate. Through comprehensive viticultural research in their vineyards, Christie and her team have been able to thoughtfully combine traditional Rhône varieties that authentically reflect their origins. The 1847 Shiraz vines, among the oldest in Australia, are the heart of their family-owned estate and play an essential role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Barossa Valley.
