A photograph taken by Barossa photographer Dragan Radocaj of an old vine in Langmeil’s The Freedom 1843 Shiraz vineyard has received international recognition.
The photo, captured in 2016, won the Landscape & Plants category in the Old Vine Photography Competition in London.
The Freedom 1843 Shiraz Vineyard is believed to be the world’s oldest surviving Shiraz vineyard.
Today, the Lindner family – Shirley, Paul (director of winemaking) and James (sales and marketing director) – are the custodians of Langmeil and its Old Vine Garden vineyards, preserving some of Australia’s most significant viticultural treasures for future generations.
The Old Vine Photography Competition attracted almost 300 entries from 18 countries across four continents, showcasing vineyards from around the world.
Winning the Landscape & Plants category is a significant international achievement, recognising not only the striking imagery but also the remarkable story behind one of the world’s most historically important vineyards.
Judge Randy Caparoso said, “If I were to look at this photo without knowing its provenance, I would guess it is a grapevine over 100 years old.
“The camera lens successfully captures the etched crevices, long spurs and muscular enough trunk indicative of age, like the face of a wily 90-year-old man or sharp-eyed 100-year-old woman.
“Of course, knowing that it is a 183-year-old Shiraz makes it even more impressive, particularly the cluster sizes, demonstrating that old or ancient vines also exist for this reason: because these vines are still vigorous enough to produce a healthy crop.”
James Lindner said the award was as much a recognition of the photographer behind the lens as it was the vineyard itself.
“Dragan has an extraordinary ability to capture the soul of a landscape,” he said.
“His work goes far beyond documenting a vineyard – it tells the story of place, history and the enduring character of the Barossa.
“The Freedom 1843 Vineyard is one of Australia’s great living treasures, and we’re incredibly proud that Dragan’s image has helped share that story with an international audience.
“This recognition celebrates not only these remarkable old vines, but also the artistry required to reveal their beauty and significance.”
The Freedom Vineyard remains a thriving, working vineyard, producing wines that continue to express the character, longevity and authenticity of one of the world’s oldest surviving Shiraz plantings.
The winery traces its roots to the Prussian settlers who founded the village of Langmeil in 1842.