Unconventional Barossa Winemaker Bronson Kies is changing the definition of a Shiraz, after Kies Family Wines’ Shepard Vuk White Shiraz was given gold at the China Wine and Spirits Awards held overnight, but in a category made for reds.
“We only make wine from the fruit grown in our own vineyard, and subsequently our one dry white, the Hill Block Riesling – which previously won 95 points in Winestate Magazine – was selling out within four months, leaving us with a busy cafe and cellar door, and no dry white wine over Summer,” Jesse said.
“The first and second vintage of the white Shiraz sold out, and now the third vintage has won a gold in a red wine category because they had no idea where to put it,” laughed Jesse.
“It just didn’t fit any mold.”
The Shepard Vuk White Shiraz is a tribute to Bronson’s son, “as a shepherd protects his flock from wolves”. The delicate & floral dry white is made from the biggest & boldest of the Barossa’s red varieties, Shiraz, which is plentiful in the families vineyard.
Their Hill Block Riesling, Klauber Block Shiraz and 2021 Dedication Shiraz were also awarded Gold with their Cheers to You Sparkling Shiraz given bronze, and the 2022 vintage of the Dedication Shiraz receiving a Double Gold – “the most powerful endorsement awarded”.
Also from the region, the Estate Merlot by Wakefield Taylors Family Wines took out Clare Valley Wine of The Year.
Jesse says their busy cellar door allows them to be at the forefront of wine trends.
“We are always focused on what the customer wants and how we can make a wine that’ll suit them,” she said.
“Customer are absolutely the back bone of our little business and honestly, when they order wine from us, we as a family do a little happy dance!”
The winery previously won Trip Advisor’s #1 Attraction Barossa Valley in 2023 and 2022 Winner SA’s Best Small Family Business.
Off the back of these awards, the Kies are preparing for their next new wine, the New Kids on the Block Grenache, a heartfelt homage to the 7th generation and newest members of the Kies family, Michael and Tina’s Grandkids – Gabriella, Polly, Shepard, Thomas, and Morris.
The New Kids on the Block Grenache blends old-world charm with modern elegance as they mark the first new grape variety at the vineyard since 2001, with each rich with the taste of ripe berries, subtle spice, and delicate oak.
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