Vineyard

Thanks to its altitude of 450m, the Hillrose vineyard in Boorowa boasts a desirably cool continental climate. That means chilly winters, warm summers and typically very settled autumn conditions when the days are sunny and night temperatures fall, perfect for long, slow grape ripening and flavour concentration. The soils are rich and deep; typically dark red granite clays impregnated with basalt. While capable of holding water at depth, they are free draining and support strong vine growth.

Winemaking

Handpicked and transported to the Hunter Valley, the wine was partially fermented with whole bunches and remained on skins for a period of extended maceration. The wine was pressed of skins and sent directly to oak where it finished malolactic fermentation. A mix of 1yr seasoned French oak was utilized during the maturation period and the wine was never racked and returned, it remained on full lees post pressing until it was assembled for bottling at the start of the following summer. It is for this reason the wine is in a reductive state and will benefit emensly from a light decanting when opened.

Tasting Notes

Initially slightly closed and reductive, after light decanting the elegant brooding dark and red fruit spectrum shyly awakens exposing subtle whole bunch influenced undertones. Well balanced oak harmonizes the fragility of this serious, old world inspired wine. Grainy tannins and crunchy acidity compete for attention across the persistent palate. Drink now with decanting through till 2028 and onward for a more tertiary influenced wine.