2024 Old Vine Grenache

VINTAGE SUMMARY

A normal wet winter was followed by a picturesque dry spring. The long range weather patterns indicated a shift from La Niña towards El Niño, which favours drier and hotter conditions. In these warmer seasons, we adjust our practices to encourage slightly higher yields and more canopy cover. However, the unexpected summer rainfall in December and January presented a unique challenge, resulting in larger bunches and berry development. Warm conditions prevailed through February and early March, promoting ripening of flavours and sugars with the balance we were aiming for. The warmth led to an intense couple of weeks, during which we harvested the majority of the grapes. 

WINEMAKING

Sourced exclusively from 13.3 hectares of un-irrigated bush vines planted in 1946. Hand-picked in mid-March, selectively sorted in the winery. Gently destemmed with 50% crushed, 50% whole berries retained. Wild yeast fermentation in stainless steel. A very gentle pump over regime, often just wetting the cap. Some extended macerating up to 2 and a half months to polish the tannins. No pressings used. Maturation in a mixture of old Austrian and French oak foudre and puncheons, ceramic egg and amphora. Bottled February 2025. Certified organic and biodynamic.