Vinification
Grenache was harvested in early April once the fruit had reached the required level of ripeness and flavour. This fruit was harvested by machine at night to ensure preservation of fruit characters. The smaller Shiraz component was picked early March.

A combination of open fermenters and stainless steel pump-over tanks were used. A warm to hot ferment temperature, combined with regular pump-overs and plunging ensured optimum extraction. Timely pressing and only using the best press wine fractions ensured good quality of flavour and tannin. A little Shiraz was included prior to maturation with French oak, to add complexity and mid palate richness. The wine is bottled early, under screwcap, to ensure freshness and longevity.

Winemakers Comments
The 2005 vintage is regarded as a very ripe, strongly flavoured vintage with lots of colour, flavour, tannin and alcohol. It was one of the driest harvest periods on record with no rain during harvest. At this stage it is expected that the wines will have considerable life but with regional softness to allow early appreciation.

Tasting Notes
Full bright red with purple hue. Fleshy nose of raspberry, light bubblegum and well integrated cedar and toast oak. Fruity characters dominate. A rich, full palate with red fruits, oak, crisp acidity and delicate ‘Turkish Delight’ note. Shows regional characters and potential for development.

Download PDF fact sheet