2021 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’ amphorae. Capturing a contrasting expression of detailed perfume and a loose knit weave of tannins.Â
VINTAGE SUMMARY
A favourable growing season, with good winter rains, a mild flowering and fruit set period, with continued spring rainfall to ensure a healthy canopy. Yields showed good balance between vine vigor and moderate berry size. The ripening period that began late January was very cool, with some welcome rainfall in mid-February. The delayed harvest, with cold nights and mild sunny days, produced excellent fruit ripeness and intensity. The freshness and bright natural acidity of the fruit were a real feature.
WINEMAKING
Hand-picked from the Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard on the 23rdof March and selectively berry sorted. 100% destemmed, crushed and tipped into 1800 L ‘cocciopesto’ stone egg shaped amphoras. The fermentation occurred in the amphoras, a gentle maceration of only wetting the cap. 69% remained on skins in Amphora for 198 days. No pressings are used in this wine. Matured exclusively in the amphora for a total of 13 months. Bottled June 2022.
Tasting Notes
Technical
