from our United States distributor. This classic Rhone blend has became an important wine in the Cape Barren portfolio with increased demand both nationally and internationally. The fruit for this wine was sourced from the vineyards located in Willunga on red/brown loam and from Blewitt Springs on a mix of sand and red/brown loam. The Willunga vineyards are warmer, closer to sea level and earlier ripening than those of Blewitt Springs. The McLaren Vale region in general has Mediterranean climate of warm dry summers and long warm days and short cool nights with an average rainfall of 580-700mm per annum. Vine age ranges from 16 years at Willunga and McLaren Vale to 70 years at Blewitt Springs.
Fermentation is normally for approximately 10 days with a warm onset to fermentation (low 30'sC) followed by a cooler finish (mid 20'sC). Pressed dry with malolactic fermentation in barrel. Maturation in 10% new oak with the balance 1 to 3 year old French and American hogsheads for 12 months prior to blending of components. Final blend assembled for bottling typically with 50% Grenache 40% Shiraz 10% Mourvédre. This wine characteristically displays a deep crimson red colour, the nose delivers intense plum and prune aromas with a hint of cassis and five-spice. A big, tightly structured style offering dense black fruit flavours complimented by anise and mocha accents. The palate carries a long length of persistence with a hint of savoury oak and delicious fruit sweetness on the finish.
