A cool and European season produced perfumed and finely structured Shiraz with excellent aging potential. The 2021 harvest was two-three weeks later than ‘usual’ and the crop enjoyed the benefits of long, slow ripening without extreme temperatures.
The Mayford vineyard currently has 14 different clones of Shiraz planted, many of which are hard-to-come-by heritage clones. Each brings a different expression of the variety and contributes complexity and interest to the overall blend. The new clonal plantings give perfume and fragrance- the original 28 year-old Shiraz block bringing maturity, depth and power.
Small parcels of Shiraz were selectively hand-picked over the last week of March and the first weeks of April and vinified separately according to clone and harvest date. Each batch was chilled and cold soaked prior to spontaneous fermentation by indigenous yeasts. Complexity was enhanced by varying times on skins, percentages of whole berry/bunch, degrees of post ferment maceration and of course a diverse range of cooperages. Oak maturation was in French barriques for 18 months, 30% new.
A fragrant clutch of violets, rose petals, coffee liqueur, anise, blood plums, dried herb, spice and smoked hickory rise from the glass.. Smooth, textural and balanced, the palate shows whole-bunch complexity and lovely length and texture. Grace, restraint and beauty.
Drink 2024- 2038.
Bottled January 2023
Bottled under screwcap.