2016 Murdoch Hill Cronberry Syrah, Adelaide Hills

The Cronberry Block is part of Murdoch Hill's Oakbank vineyard (at 420 metres in the Adelaide Hills). It’s a predominately east-facing slope avoiding the harsh afternoon sun, producing Syrah of noteworthy finesse which Michael Downer describes as, “a typical cool climate Shiraz with fragrant perfumed red fruits, pepper and spice notes.”

Handpicked and de-stemmed into open fermenters with varying levels of whole bunches, the wine was matured in a combination of new (15%) and older French oak barriques and puncheons for 10 months before bottling. There’s a good measure of juicy raspberry and cherry fruit, supported by fine and savoury tannin and the additional time in bottle has served to showcase the classic characters of the vineyard, with savoury brown spice, black olive and plummy fruit as well as hints of black pepper all now starting to shine through. It’s another fine and wonderfully aromatic red from the talented and multi-award winning Michael Downer.

---

30% whole bunches, matured in French oak (15% new). A very intense and powerful syrah with black fruits liberally doused with black pepper, spice and licorice. Despite this full-bodied assault on the senses, the wine retains shape, and has excellent balance. Top class cool climate style