Handy Vale Blend 18

The ’18 version of this wine (like every year) had a change in the makeup of it. This year it’s 50%Mourv/ 35%Gren/ 13%Shz and 2%’19 Nero d’Avola, hence we’ve done away with the GSM/GMS/MGS label and opted for it’s new moniker: Vale Blend. Very creative, we know, but in our opinion the blend that defines the McLaren Vale region is the one comprising of Grenache, Mourvedre and Shiraz, and obviously in whatever percentage of each makes the best wine possible.

The Mourvedre was incredibly pretty and vibrant this year, making it the standout of the 3 varieties and a perfect base for the wine.

The Grenache component was made for the Dapper, so see the production notes of that for info.

The Shiraz was a big, tannic, juicy dark, fruit-driven bomb of wine that gave the overall blend good structure and depth, but too much of it was overpowering, hence the low percentage.

All three varieties were processed separately, using similar techniques of wild fermentation in open fermenter. With ferment management techniques of plunging and pump-overs used sparingly. And then after fermentation, all wines were matured in aged barrels for texture.

Ruby red, with purple hues.

Bright, fresh nose bursting with fruit and spice. A rich berry smorgasbord, with boysenberry and raspberry upfront, and some Pinot-esque flavours of nectarine, apricot and orange peel underlying. Balanced nicely with creamy vanilla from subtle oak use, and spice notes of cinnamon and clove.

Medium-bodied, soft yet tight tannins, and a good length for such a smashable wine. The aromatics follow through to the palate, but are joined by secondary characters of leather, blossom, and raspberry liquorice. A juicy mid-palate captivates the tastebuds, and then the finish follows through with the red berries to bring the wine full circle. A complex little wine, hidden within a tasty little number.