Wine columnist and connoisseur DENNIS KNILL tries and tastes Orlando’s new wines.
After emigrating from Bavaria in 1837 Johann Gramps purchased a block of land in Rowland Flat, planting his first grapes along the banks of Jacobs Creek in Barossa.
His first vintage of 12 dozen bottles of hock style white wine was fermented in one octave oak barrel and was so successful the winery grew rapidly. In 1877 Gustav, Johann’s son was gifted the winery as a wedding present. Gustav became so involved that he built a new winery naming it Olando after an Italian version of his father’s hometown in Eichig.
For the next century, Orlando progressed to a household name with award winning wines that capture all that is great about South Australian wines. For sheer depth and intensity, these two at different price points take some beating.
’15 Orlando Bungalow Lane Barossa cabernet sauvignon
RRP $35
A full-bodied shiraz from northern Barossa that’s ripe and aromatic with an abundance of concentrated fruit. Good buying at this price. Perfect paired with a Sunday roast.
’15 Orlando Centenary Hill Barossa shiraz
RRP $75
Fermented in French and American barrels, this wine is bursting with richness, flavour and soft silky tannins, setting a high benchmark. Team up with venison, game, beef, and lamb.
