Clarendon Hills Brookman Syrah

Description

”ColourBlackened crimson.NoseIncredibly staggering presentation of rich roasted meats, roasted coffee beans, tapenade, cigar tobacco and black currant liqueur. The facade appears polished and cream-like smooth. Low and seductive it appears to need time to emerge from its shell.PalateA panoramic 169 aspect tantalizes the entire palate with a frighteningly realistic rendition of fresh blueberries and cream. However, savoury complexities actually dominate the palate experience and increase in intensity to a sublime peak then slowly fade. This demonstrated restraint of power highlights the 2012 vintage caliber. Of its Hickinbotham and Onkaparinga Syrah sisters it is the most refined.REGIONClarendon, McLaren Vale 10 kms N/E of McLaren Vale and 250 metres higher above sea level. We pick 2-3 weeks later than McLaren Vale and enjoy longer, milder, more consistent ripening conditions.CONDITIONSFavourable 2009 winter rains were shadowed by bright sunny conditions in Spring. The healthy environment encouraged the vines to respond in retaliation to the prior vintages lowered crop levels. The vines shot fruit that looked healthy and was in abundance from day one. The consistent mild growing season saw fruit ripen earnestly. An unusual early veraison paved the way for continued steady development. Bunch thinning was was looking a certainty but the vines pulled the fruit in to line and all fruit was evenly ripened and looked outstanding. Brookman vineyard is dry grown in heavy clay soils. Hand picking took place over several passes to ensure optimal ripeness of the fruit.WINEMAKINGOld, dry grown vines planted in 1920 are hand picked thereby culturing whole berry, wild yeast fermentation. This increases the retention of the grapes varietal essence and minimises bitter tannin extract. All pressings are returned to the barrel and bottled onsite without fining or filtration.MATURATION18 months, 70% brand new, tight-grained French Oak. 30% hierarchy of 1-4 year old barrels. Barrels are finally hand selected by winemaking team.” – Clarendon Hills