Why old vines make extraordinary wines—from the past to your glass. 

Did you hear? We’ve added two more awards to our collection!

Our Old Vine Shiraz and our iconic Grand Merlot have been recently adorned with prestigious bronze awards at the esteemed Decanter World Wine Awards 2023! This remarkable acknowledgment pays homage to the elegance and excellence of old vine wines, a cherished legacy that lies close to the heart of Irvine Wines.  

And today, we want to let you in on a little secret about our Old Vine Shiraz. Did you know that we crafted it from 120 year-old vines? Yep, you heard us right. And if you’re wondering what the term ‘old vines’ means, then you’ve come to the right place. Because we’re taking you on a captivating journey of exploring the enchanting world of old vine wines, their timeless allure, and the reasons they are esteemed by wine connoisseurs worldwide. 

The Timeless Allure of Old Vines 

Why age matters?  

When we talk about old vine wines, we’re tapping into a rich history that goes back centuries, engraved into the very roots of each grapevine. These vines have stood strong through the years, like ancient guardians of tradition. As they grow older, their roots go deeper into the earth, drawing nourishment from the unique terroir. This connection enriches the grapes with minerals and nutrients, giving the wine a distinct and exceptional flavour. 

Low-yielding 

As these vines age, they naturally produce fewer grapes, focusing their energy on fewer clusters. This “low-yielding” phenomenon is a big reason why wines made from old vines are of such high quality. With fewer grapes to care for, the remaining ones ripen slowly and evenly, resulting in a more concentrated and intense flavour. 

Adapting to changing climates 

Another advantage of old vines is their ability to adapt to changing climates. They’ve experienced various weather patterns over the years, making them more resilient and better equipped to handle challenging growing conditions. This adaptability ensures consistent wine quality, regardless of external factors. 

How do old vine wines taste? 

Old vine wines are known for their complexity and depth of character that comes with age. The flavours they develop over time are multi-layered and profound, creating a delicate balance of fruitiness, acidity, and tannins that dance gracefully on the palate. 

Winemakers such as ourselves also play a crucial role in bringing out the magic of old vine wines. We have to treat these grapes with great respect, allowing their natural qualities to shine through. Through skillful craftsmanship, we turn the journey of these vines into a symphony of flavours that tell a story of their own. From these vines, we craft wines that pay homage to the grace and elegance of their age. To get your hands on a bottle or two of our award-winning Old Vine Shiraz, grown from our 120-year-old Shiraz vines, click here.