Fruit comes from 130 year-old vines in Greenock. Interesting to see that the alcohol reading on the bottle is 14.5% while the website and press release list 15.38%. I’d like to see the laws tightened up in this regard. Yes, it’s warm but it maintains balance. Spends 30 months in French hogsheads, 10% of which are new. The oak is prominent. Not over-powering by any means but I’m not so sure it’s suited to Grenache.
Sweet raspberry and darker berry flavours entwined with malty, clovey wood. It is both spicy and earthy. Subtle notes of meat and game. A creamy mouthfeel with fine tannins and ensconced acidity. Plenty of length and depth. Some scattered dried herbs on the back-palate. A touch too showy for my liking but it will win over many and live a long time. 92 Very Good
Region: Barossa Valley
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $75
Tasted: June 2013