Ben Schild Reserve Barossa Shiraz 2017

Schild Estate is named for the second-generation Barossa wine family which bears its name. Ben and Alma Schild moved to the Valley in 1952, acquiring their first vineyard near Rowland Flat where the original homestead is still situated. Tragically, Ben died suddenly in 1956 leaving son Ed, the youngest of eight children and the only son living at home, to run the family property at the age of 16.

Ed Schild’s enthusiasm for the region, its offerings and vineyards saw him steadily grow the landholdings of the Schild Family, which today encompasses over 450 acres under vine all cultivated under the expert eye of his son Mick. Within this large amount of land is one small patch of 160 year old shiraz vines which produces the iconic Moorooroo Shiraz. He also purchased the Tweedies Gully vineyard in 1977, noting that with its westerly aspect, high altitude and sandy loam soils, the vineyard was a perfect fit for premium Riesling production. Taking advantage of the cooling afternoon winds, particularly in the summer, the vineyard shows a number of characters more akin to its close neighbour, Eden Valley.

Until recently Schild Estate Wines were produced offsite but in July 2010, the new state-of-the-art Valley of Hope Winery was opened, with 2011 the first complete vintage to come through its doors, under the charge of Chief Winemaker Scott Hazeldine.

Ed and Lorraine have four children and eight grandchildren which ensures a strong family focus within the day to day running of the  winery today. As Ed Schild’s daughters Judy and Leanne play an increasingly important role in the estate, the request naturally came for a sparkling white wine to complement the lively banter of the Schild family get together and their Premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from 2013 and 2014 vintages filled the vacancy perfectly.