Oct 2000 Volume 81 Number 10 "serving the protectors"
Five Generations of Bethany
By Mark Altmann

Sipping Bethany wines conjures thoughts of formal dinner parties with elegantly-attired guests who, at evening’s close, retire to the library for cognac and cigars. So as one dines and sips - on a Bethany wine - one can be transported to just such a scene - albeit in one’s mind.

Johann Gottlob Schrapel founded Bethany Wines 1844. Now, five generations later, it is still owned by the Schrapel family and stands as testament to the extraordinary winemaking of one of the Barossa Valleys first settlers.

Situated in an old quarry, the winery provides natural advantages for the winemaking process. The Bethanien Block, the Old Manse Block and the Homestead Block make up the vineyards’ 30ha. Bethany’s grape variety includes Chardonnay, Riesling, Semillon, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Grenache.

Bethany winemakers, Geoff and Rob Schrapel, bring years of experience to their craft. Rob learnt his travelling the world working vintages in Europe, the USA and South America. Geoff, a Roseworthy College graduate, gained his knowledge at a number of large Australian wine companies.

BETHANY 1999 WOOD-AGED SEMILLON

To the light, this wine has an impressive green-gold colour and a sappy oak aroma. It is fresh and nutty to inhale, with a slight grassy aspect.

The palate is strong and full-bodied, with a dry grassy-lemon flavour. Strong lime and citrus stimulate the palate; soft tannins give lasting mouthfeel which balance a crisp acid on a fresh finish. This Semillon is ready to drink now, but short-term cellaring would enhance the full flavours it will continue to produce.

It is an ideal accompaniment to prawn cocktail.

RRP per bottle: $18

BETHANY 1999 GRENACHE

With a lively aroma of cherries, this young, fresh wine boasts a full red colour.

It has a depth of palate, which is well-crafted, elegant and balanced. Its flavours of tobacco, cigars and full ripe tannins spring immediately to the fore. Pleasant and straightforward, it is a solid mouthful: rich and spicy with plenty of grip. This Grenache is ready to drink now or can be cellared for one to two years.

It would be well suited to Beef Wellington.

RRP per bottle: $15

BETHANY 1998 LATE HARVEST-CUT RIESLING

Peaches and honey with a slight yeastiness - along with a hint of Botrytis - give aromas of what one’s palate may come to expect from this wine.

It is moderately sweet with a flavour leaning toward vanilla. It has a smooth yet tangy palate, which is reserved and almost austere. A well-balanced wine, this Riesling can accompany a platter of melon fruits and cheeses.

RRP per bottle: $16

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