DESERT SANDS is the name of our vineyard in Blewitt Springs, a sub-region of McLaren Vale. This wine showcases the power and elegance we can achieve from McLaren Vale shiraz.
Early in the growing season we highlight five rows of vines which we bunch thin to one bunch per shoot (approximately one tonne to the acre) to allow maximum flavour development. Vinification is done in a small open fermenter and pressed after 10 days on skins. Maturation is 18 months in French hogsheads.
Blackberry, raspberry, spiced plums and charcuterie with a violet/lavender lift on the nose, making way to a palate featuring dark mixed berry, a savoury coffee grind core with a long and fresh finish displaying violets and red fruits.
"The vaunted Blewitt Springs, the source again. The lowest-yielding cuvée, such is the density, savouriness and pliancy of the tannins, al dente as they stream across the gums to ensure the fruit, no matter how ripe, maintains a sense of decorum. Chiselled. Blue-fruit aspersions, creamy-ish oak (10% new) and loads of star anise, cocoa powder and tapenade. Serious texture, without being too cerebral. 95 points" - Ned Goodwin, Halliday Wine Companion
Notes on the 2018 DUNE Desert Sands:
"The yield was less than 1t/acre, open-fermented, matured for 12 months in 10% new oak. The one-piece cork suggests some of the wine is headed a long way north. It's hard to separate the intensity, acidity, fruit and tannins - don't waste valuable drinking time. 97 points" - James Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion
