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.

Classic sweet aromas of ripe plum, raspberry and cherry are punctuated by hints of nutmeg, anise and cedar.

The palate shows layers of ripe red fruits and spices, and is rich and textured with big velvety tannins and a long, savoury finish.

Deep crimson with violet hues.

Matured in seasoned French hogsheads for 12 months prior to blending and bottling.

The vines went through veraison a week earlier than 2009. Lower yields coupled with the mild ripening period resulted in concentrated fruit. Vintage began a week earlier than 2009 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.