2008 Shotfire Shiraz Now Available

Thorn-Clarke has deep roots in the Barossa, with six generations involved in wine-making and grape-growing in the storied valley. The winery's name comes from the union of David and Cheryl Clarke (nee Thorn), joining together two old Barossa families. The Clarkes started in Barossa in the late 1800s, not in grapes, but in gold. David's ancestor, James Goddard, was responsible for the opening of the 'Lady Alice' gold mine in the 1880s. It was David's love of wine that led to him planting a vineyard in 1987.

Getting started in 1987 makes David Clarke somewhat of an old-timer for Barossa, but the Thorn side of the family makes him look a newcomer. They started growing grapes in the 1870s, and have continued as grape growers since. This long history in the Barossa, six generations so far--the seventh generation is not yet old enough to participate--means that they take a long-term view--the goal is for the family to still be making world-class wine six generations (and more) from now. They recognize that in order to ensure this, over-delivering on quality to ensure great value is essential.

Their Shotfire Shiraz bottling has always been an outstanding example of this philosophy. Over the past 5 years this wine has consistently been one of the top Shiraz values around, earning an annual Smart Buy designation from Wine Spectator (with two vintages making the Top 100 list at the end of the year). It is, quite simply, outstanding Barossa Shiraz and one of the finest values in the world.

The 2008 vintage is now in-store and ready to be enjoyed!

2008 Thorn Clarke Shotfire Shiraz

The grapes are crushed and destemmed into open fermenters. Yeast is added immediately once in fermenter and the ferments are pumped over twice daily to maximise colour, tannin and flavour extraction. Cooling is used to ensure ferments remain in the 22-25 degrees celcius range which will allow the fruit to display maximum fruit expression. Pressing then occurs approximately seven days after crushing and the wine is then put into a mix of French and American oak to mature.
- Note from the Winery

Regular Price: $19.99

Sale Price: $17.99

12 bottle Price: $15.99

The Vineyard - 1445 Laughlin Ave. - McLean, VA 22101 - 703.288.2970
www.thevineyardva.com