2010 / 2009
Vintage
The 2009 vintage in Mudgee was excellent. The season started out with heavy spring rains which got the vines off to a good start. The early part of the summer was mild and ideal for vine growth. The heat wave conditions which were experienced during January were interspersed with cooler winds from the coast which moderated the effects of the heat and the vines got through this period in a relatively good state. Most importantly the period between veraison (fruit colouring) and maturity was fine and mild allowing the development of intense flavours.
Winemaking
The 2009 barbera grapes were harvested entirely from our vineyards. Fermentation was conducted between 22 and 26 degrees centigrade with an additional two weeks soak on skins before pressing out. The wine was aged in 1 and 2 year old Spanish coopered American oak barrels for 12 months and was lightly filtered with no fining.
Colour
Dark red in colour with purple hues.
Bouquet
Intense blueberry fruit aroma with a slight bubblegum note.
Palate
Full bodied palate with rich fruit flavours with a soft clean finish.
Suggested Food
Team this wine with rare rib eye steak or richly flavoured game.
Cellaring
This wine will continue to develop and reward with cellaring in the medium term.
Awards
4 1/2 Stars: 2011 Winestate Magazine Central and Western NSW May/June Issue
4 1/2 Stars: 2011 Winestate Magazine Wine and SPirits Insider TOP 40 Best Buys
Rating 89: 2011 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion
BRONZE: 2010 Mudgee Wine Show
4 Stars: 2010 Winestate Magazine BEST OF STATE Annual Issue
4 1/2 Stars: 2010 Winestate Magazine Central and Western NSW May/June Issue
