Growing Conditions
The 2014 moon cycles put Easter quite late in the season, so the expectation of a late harvest prevailed until South Australia experienced its record number of heat days over 40C in January, culminating in the worst bushfire in Eden Valley in living memory, and followed by the wettest February in 44 years. Fortunately, Eden Valley was still in veraison, which allowed the quenching rain to rebalance the fruit, particularly in the older dry-grown vineyards. The change to mild autumnal weather in late February after the rains allowed for a focus on early vintage white varieties, while the red varieties continued to fully ripen. March became colder and wetter, which seemed to change to a winter pattern after equinox, resulting in one of the longest and latest vintages. In summary, a challenging season with excellent quality but very low yields.
Nose
Concentrated aromas of blue and black fruits, dark plum and exotic five spice exude from the glass, while more subtle and classic nuances of black pepper, sage and chicory allure and entice.
Palate
The palate is rich, lush and elegantly structured with layers of texture and beautifully balanced flavours of blue and black fruits, dried herbs and charcuterie. Fine velvety tannins and a savoury mid-palate provide incredible length and depth.
Appearance
Crimson in colour with deep red hues.
Aging
Matured in 89% French and 11% American(33% New, 67% Seasoned) hogshead for 18 months prior to blending and bottling.
Harvest
Hand-picked