A classic Australian blend and one that the Eastern ridge of the Barossa does so well. A cooler vintage in 2017 gave real brightness and fruit purity to this wine whilst retaining the classic plush blue and black fruits and structure so beloved of Shiraz Cabernet.
Parcels were selected to provide the clear varietal character that makes this blend work so well whilst also offering the fruit weight and intensity that the Barossa is known for.
The growing season for the 2017 vintages was cool (December) or average (January) with brief periods of rain in January to keep the vines refreshed. 2017 was a balanced, cooler vintage in the Barossa with a long ripening period which led to reds developing exceptional colour and tannic framework along with a deep fruit profile and aromatic intensity.
The fruit was crushed and destemmed prior to fermentation, with the Shiraz and Cabernet kept separate in open fermenters for 7 - 10 days. During this time the juice was pumped over the skins 2 to 3 times per day to ensure excellent extraction of colour, tannin and fruit flavours. Post fermentation, the juice was drained and pressed before being transferred to 10% new French oak hogsheads and 90% seasoned barrels. Matured for 12 months in oak to balance the wine’s fresh fruit characters with soft integrated tannins.
Ageing Potential : Cellar 5-10 Years
Alcohol Level : 14.5%
Awards
5 Stars First Village Shiraz Cabernet Sam Kim, Wine Orbit (February 2019)
