Back to the same vineyard in Gladysdale from which the fruit for the 2010 was sourced. I bought five of last year’s vintage and asked if it was possible to get a 2009 included to fill out the six-pack. Interesting to taste them side by side. Really liked both wines but the 2010 struck me as more impressive. And this may be the best of the three releases.
Similar techniques employed this time round. 15% Whole bunch ferment in large format French oak puncheons and an old 800 litre vat that goes by the name ‘Helga’. Minimal sulphur. Lemon zest and curd, sourdough, oats and a hint of honeycomb. With food (Ramen actually, and a particularly good version from Taro’s with extraordinary pork stock depth) some stone fruits showed more clearly. Still, the emphasis and excitement revolves more around texture. Driven with a mineral/acid shaft running through the palate. Softer complexity contributed by 60% malolactic fermentation and a phenolic pinch on the definitive finish. Loved this. Excellent
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 13.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $40
Tasted: June 2012