News and Events

01 November 2004

No Fox Creek Reserve Shiraz 2003! Heat and Drought the Likely Culprit

Fox Creek Wines has committed itself to predetermined style and quality standards by only producing Reserve wines in excellent vintages. Sadly, after rigorous classification tastings, winemakers Chris Dix and Tony Walker have concluded that none of our flagship wine, the Reserve Shiraz, will be produced from the 2003 vintage that was affected by the adverse climatic conditions felt Australia wide.

Managing Director, Jim Watts, said “We won’t compromise on standards under the circumstances. The trust and respect of the loyal band of clients who love this wine are far too valuable for us to lower the bar on excellence criteria. This is the first time in ten vintages that this has occurred but of course it is always possible when highly selected Reserve quality wines are produced. Our 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot wines are also of insufficient quality to produce Reserve wines.”

Early indications are that the 2004 wines will return the marque to its usual status.

Fox Creek Reserve wines total around 3,000 cases, about ten percent of all Fox Creek wines, and sell for between $30 and $70 per bottle at retail. “As you can see, this decision impacts significantly on our bottom line” says Watts.

Watts believes the long term impact of global warming is a concern for the future of ultra premium wines in Australia: “Though it is a long bow to draw, more and more research is being released about the inevitable and detrimental effects of global warming on our environment. The wine industry is not going to be exempt from this,” says Watts.