Clare Valley – 3200 bottles produced
Fascinated by the art of blending, Jeff has trialled shiraz-based wines for years. This release is shiraz with just a small amount of nero d’avola which adds a touch of perfume and freshness, matured in French oak (35% new barriques) 18 months.
The second vintage of this wine remains distinctively a cool Clare Shiraz blend and very different from the popular style of warm climate Australian shiraz. Much more savoury both in its fruit and the general feel of the wine: there’s a dry gentle grip on the finish which reflects the overall impact of the wine. The 2015 has similar brooding, briary aromatics to the previous vintage: subtle and complex, medium-bodied with wild blackberry and bramble flavours, good weight and restrained power. It is neatly balanced, ripe, with fine, supple tannins, lingering.
Ageing potential: While we cannot say for sure, our experience strongly suggests it is well suited to ageing; 15-20 years (if you can leave it that long). We suggest enjoy now – 2025 to be safe.
Source: Selected private growers’ fruit
Yield: 4-7 tonnes/ha
Harvest date: Hand harvested 14th – 27th Feb
Fermentation: Barrel fermented French oak barriques (35% new), 18 months, Profile: Perfumed, complex, weighty; perfectly balanced
Fining: Nil – suitable for vegans and vegetarians
Release date: 8th September 2017
Availability: Restricted to members and a few restaurants due to small production
Review:
Toni Paterson, The Real Review, 24th January 2018
Predominantly made from Clare Valley shiraz with a dash of nero d’avola. Supple and joyous with a plush, dark-fruited palate. Fragrant dark cherries and mulberries, with a little blackberry on the finish. Excellent mid-palate fleshiness and intensity. A beautifully balanced, elegant red wine with gentle savouriness and pleasing restraint. 94 Points.
