In the local dialect known as "Barossa-Deutsch", Hangin' Snakes is an expletive that doesn't have to be deleted; hence a discouraging word need not be heard even in the heat of the crush season.
The Langmeil Estate was settled in the 1840's by determined, faithful and non-cursing Lutherans. Some of the original 160-year-old vines they planted are still standing there, dry-farmed and proudly gnarly. Phylloxera has never affected these aged vines, unlike their European ancestors.
These old vines might have been ripped out in the Great Australian Shiraz Depression of the 1980's, were it not for the Lindner family who saw the merits of the historic estate and revived it. Langmeil now specializes in bringing the essence of the roots of Barossa to market in a wine bottle.
Winemaker Paul Lindner reports the blend of Langmeil Hangin' Snakes 2005 is 95% Shiraz plus 1/20 Viognier, all from Barossa growers. Aging is in a combination of new and old American and French oak barriques.
Tasting Notes: Appearance: Deep purple cranberry, semi-opaque. Aromas: Black raspberry, Damson plum preserves, hints of smoky bacon and wafts of southern fried apples. Medium-to-full-bodied, jammy and smooth on the palate, the deep fruit pie flavors combine with a pinch of pepper and nice oak spice overtones and carry well through the generous softly tannic finish.
Excellent value ($20). Closure: Screw cap. Alcohol content: 14.5%.
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