2020 Hickinbotham Clarendon Grenache *
From a site whose slopes are steeped in rich history, we source this Grenache from unirrigated bush vines planted in 1962 on the Hickinbotham Clarendon vineyard. Its distinctive fruit is nurtured with a gentle wild fermentation and matured in grand ‘cocciopesto’ egg shaped amphorae. Capturing a contrasting expression of detailed perfume and a loose knit weave of tannins.Â
VINTAGE
The growing season was affected by a very hot spring, leading to the lowest yields on record. As the grapes started their ripening process the weather miraculously cooled to a very mild ripening season. This resulted in wonderful concentration of flavour, retention of natural acidity and brightness of fruit, but above all, beautiful finesse and balanced tannins
WINEMAKING
Grenache is sourced from our Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard, from a small plot (0.9 Ha) planted in 1962 on the highest ridge of the estate. Hand-picked on the 25th of March and selectively berry sorted. 100% destemmed, crushed and tipped into 1800L ‘cocciopesto’ stone egg shaped amphoras. The fermentation occurred in the amphoras, a gentle maceration of only wetting the cap. 72% remained on skins in amphora for 156 days. No pressings are used in this wine. Matured exclusively in amphora for a total of 11 months. Bottled April 2021.
Tasting Notes
Technical
