The 2010 growing season was preceded by above average winter rainfall. Spring was mild with little frost damage and gave us an even budburst. The weather remained cold and wet through spring which held back growth until a two-week high 30s heat wave in November affected flowering and fruit set. Spring rains continued into early summer right through until mid-December, making it the wettest year since 2005. The vines responded to the heat and grew vigorously until early January, developing lush canopies, but bunch development suffered as a result. A roller-coaster ride of heat spikes and cool changes continued through a warm summer with occasional thunderstorms.

Intense aromas of blackberry, plum and anise are lifted by floral notes, stone-fruits, pepper and crushed spices.

The palate is juicy and rich of ripe plum flavours, with savoury notes and a hint of licorice; fine-grained tannins provide texture and length for a beautifully svelte finish.

Vibrant red with violet hues.

Matured in seasoned French hogsheads for 10 months prior to blending and bottling.

The vines went through veraison a week earlier than the previous year. Lower yields coupled with the mild ripening period resulted in concentrated fruit. Vintage began a week earlier than the previous year and was in full swing by mid-February. The white vintage was all but finished a month later while the red harvest continued with deeply coloured, well-balanced grapes being picked during mild, dry conditions until the end of April.