Tribute wine for the legendary Peter Lehmann, whose word was his bond

Peter Lehmann Wines has released a new Shiraz called the The Bond, created to honour the long-standing promise between Peter Lehmann winemakers and Barossa grapegrowers.

In the lead-up to the 1979 vintage, the Barossa experienced a large fruit surplus which threatened the livelihood of many grapegrowing families in the region as they were unable to sell their produce.

Understanding that these hard times could compromise the region’s future, Peter established his own winery. He took the surplus fruit from the growers, and with a handshake and his word as his bond, promised to repay them once he had started making wine.

A full-bodied Barossa Shiraz, The Bond is barrel-aged and boasts a rich palate with layered complexity. This wine is made from premium Shiraz vineyards scattered through the Barossa Valley and produced by senior winemaker Tim Dolan.

“The Bond is in honour of our winery’s founder Peter Lehmann – a fifth generation Barossan who was as passionate about his community as he was of the craft of winemaking,” said Mr Dolan.

“This year Peter Lehmann Wines proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary. Our winery, nor the borgeoning Barossan region, would not exist today if it wasn’t for Peter’s courage and commitment back in the late 1970s.

“We are privileged to continue Peter’s strong relationships with more than 140 growers across the region, who provide us with the Barossa’s finest grapes, including some of the greatest and oldest Shiraz in the world.”

Caroline Wood, senior brand manager, Premium Wines – Marketing at Casella Family Brands said Peter Lehmann Wines’ rich history and winemaking expertise makes The Bond a wonderful addition to its stable of premium wines.

“The Bond is an evolved style of Barossa Shiraz that appeals to the modern consumer’s palate while still maintaining Peter Lehmann Wines’ hallmark consistency and quality,” said Ms Wood.

“Shiraz is the largest varietal by nearly 40 percent in both value and volume in the total red wine segment in Australia. The Bond sits in the $20-25 price segment which is growing at nearly seven percent vs YA in value, as Australian consumers continue to premiumise their wine purchases from cheaper segments.”

The Bond is available across Australia as an exclusive for independent retailers with a RRP of $24.95.