A blend in deceasing order of Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvedre and Carignan.
All the different components are handpicked during the early morning hours and then cooled overnight in a temperature - controlled room at 5°C. A large percentage (85%) of the Shiraz is then crushed and destemmed, whilst the remaining 15% is fermented as whole cluster. Of the Grenache, Mourvedré and Carignan, 30% is fermented as whole cluster whilst the balance is destemmed and crushed. This is followed by a three day cold soak at 9 °C, covered with a CO₂ blanket. Fermentation takes place in open fermenters. All the grapes ferment spontaneously and separately. Extraction is obtained by two – three punch - downs per day. After fermentation is complete, the wine is left on the skins for another seven days. The Shiraz is then pressed to 20% new Allier French oak barrels, and the Grenache, Mourvedré and Carignan is pressed to third and fourth fill French oak barrels, which vary from 300 L to 500 L. The pressed section is kept separate. Malolactic fermentation is completed in the barrel. The wine is then racked from the lees and given a low dose of sulphur. The wines spends a total of 16 months in the barrel before it is blended and bottled.
Juicy, spicy, immediately appealing wine, full bodied but light on its feet.
