Nero d'Avola is the variety which harpooned the Brash Higgins name into prominence. As always, this release is a sleek ride.
I was fortunate to spend a week with Brad Hickey during the 2020 vintage. His attention to detail and hands off approach was fabulous to witness. From Brad's certified organic vineyard directly beside the winery, the 2020 Nero was handled the same as every vintage - destemmed, bucketed into 200L terracotta amphora (by yours truly) and left to its own devices. No sulphur. No additions. Thirty hours later, hey presto, the ferment was alive and thriving from natural yeast. The each amphora is then punched down twice a day.
Just like the wild fermentation, this is alive in the mouth too as it also arouses the senses. Black cherries, orange peel, lavander. The fruit is so dainty and pretty. Raspberries, cranberries and purple flowers come forward with more time in the glass. Velvety smooth in the mouth, it's a sleek ride indeed.
Drink to six years+
94/100
Region: McLaren Vale
RRP: $39
Source: Sample
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