2012 Hutton Vale Farm Grenache Mataro, Eden Valley

“There’s a great story about this Grenache vineyard, planted by Colin Angas in the 1960’s. The soil here was so tough that some of the new plantings, probably 10% of the vineyard block, failed to take to their new home and had to be replaced. New cuttings were hastily acquired…which time revealed to be Mataro! That no one ever thought to start over (yet again) is brilliant fortune as the Mataro makes a ripper partner for the Grenache. Across the Barossa, the growing and harvest conditions were ideal. The Grenache (93%) and Mataro (7%) were handpicked on April 10, destemmed and fermented on skins in small open stainless steel fermenters for 6 days with twice daily pump overs. The wine was matured in a combination of 20% new and 80% seasoned French puncheons for 24 months. On the nose there’s plenty of ripe plum, strawberry, charcuterie, licorice, leather polish and salted dried herbs. The palate is rich and complex, loaded with a blend of red and black fruits, salted licorice, savoury nuances and a fine tannin line finishing soft and supple.”

KYM TEUSNER, WINEMAKER