Great Expectations Shiraz

Vineyard:
A 16-year-old vineyard stands on a southern slope in weathered shale soil. Rootstock Richter 110, Shiraz clone SH1A.

Climate:
Moderate temperatures during ripening ensured even ripening. Cool night temperatures were favourable for good colour development in the skins.

Harvest:
Hand harvested into 2 ton bins, after we did grape selection in the vineyard. Production of 6000/7000 litres per hectare.

Winemaking:
Grapes were harvested at 25 B. Fermentation took place in stainless steel pump-over tanks after a cold soaking period of 2 days. The fermentation temperature was controlled at 25°C. The wine was fermented dry on the skins and then pressed to another tank where malolactic fermentation took place and finished within 4 weeks. The wine was then racked and put into a stainless steel tank where it aged on French oak staves for 12 months before it was filtered and bottled.

Tasting Notes:
Deep, crimson red with a purplish hue. Blackcurrant, savoury and spicy on the nose. Full-bodied on the palate with fine tannins that are in good balance with the acidity. Ideal with venison, oxtail stew and pungent cheese.