Claimed to be the first blend of its type in the Hunter Valley, the fruit comes from the family's Lovedale Road vineyard where 1.5 acres was planted. After a little research, this was based on the variety's ability to withstand the heat of a warm vintage. Winemaker Mike de Iuliis convinced his father to plant some Touriga in the family vineyard based on a mate's success with the variety, so it hit the dirt in 2008.I wasn't sure what to expect with this admittedly but I felt I was smacked by a left hook as it hit the nostrils. Wow!
This is subtle but powerful. Feminine yet masculine...you get the picture.
Touriga Nacional is traditionally used in fortifieds and contributes 15% to this blend. This is the second vintage the fruit has been used, and by all accounts, it's been 100% success thus far.
Fractionally on the lighter side of medium bodied, the fruit sits gracefully. Attractive florals of purple flowers and violets, raspberries and blueberries plus some cracked black pepper. The Touriga really adds to the aromatics of the wine. Some typical Hunter earthiness kicks up too via the Shiraz. Length? Is long and delicious!
Mike suggests this will be rocking after five years in the cellar. I haven't got time for that. It's SOOO good now. Good acid will soften furthermore however.
Cellar Door only.
Excellent.
Region: Hunter Valley
RRP: $40
Source: Sample
www.dewine.com.au
Follow me @Qwine
Posts
