Sheer Drop Australia Dry Red 2008 - 12 Bottles

Winery Background

Sheer Drop Wines is a boutique producer in Victoria’s Bendigo region, known for crafting elegant, terroir-driven reds using minimal intervention. Their wines, often blends or varietal reds, are prized for purity, structure and reflective winemaking from granite-rich sites.

Vineyards and Vintage Conditions

The 2008 Dry Red originates from vineyards in Faraday on Mount Alexander, planted in granite soils at elevation. The vintage appears to have offered moderate yields and balanced conditions. While specific notes on 2008 from Sheer Drop are limited, nearby producers characterised the year as “not a great vintage, but delicious nonetheless” indicating fine ripening with some atmospheric challenges (such as rain) that require careful handling.

Winemaking

Although precise vinification details for this wine are unavailable, Sheer Drop typically ferments in small batches, focusing on gentle extraction and careful oak maturation or neutral vessels. The Dry Red style suggests a blend approach possibly combining Cabernet or Shiraz components, emphasising balanced tannin structure and vibrant fruit.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Medium ruby with youthful brightness at the rim

• Aromas: Ripe dark berries, subtle earthiness, hints of cedar and herbaceous complexity

• Palate: Medium-bodied with smooth, fine-grained tannins; flavours of black cherry, cassis and soft spice develop steadily

• Finish: Clean and persistent with balanced acidity and gentle tannic grip

Cellaring Potential

Now at 17 years old (bottled vintage 2008), the Dry Red is likely at or near its drinking plateau. Reviewers of similarly aged vintage wines note that it is “still smooth” with discernible fruit and texture. It would be best consumed within a year or two of now.

Food Pairing

This wine lends itself well to roasted or braised dishes such as lamb shoulder, beef brisket or rich game stews. It also complements aged cheeses like mature cheddar or goat cheese on a charcuterie board.