HUTTON VALE 2018 GRENACHE MATARO

2018 Hutton Vale Farm Grenache Mataro.

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 beautiful partner for the Grenache. Vintage / Variety: 2018 Grenache Mataro Region: Eden Valley Vineyard: Single Vineyard, Hutton Vale Farm Tech Analysis: Alc vol.: 15.2% pH: 3.56 Vintage Conditions: The 2018 vintage is considered a standout of the decade with Shiraz faring particularly well. The 2017 winter was moderately wet followed by a mild Spring which was ideal for flowering. Summer started warm and dry and turned hot and dry but with little extreme heat periods. Overnight temperatures were warm which our old vine vineyards coped well with. The ripening period of March and April were warm and sunny leading to balanced fruit flavours and pristine fruit. Winemaking: Hand picked and gently destemmed, the varieties grow together in the vineyard and ferment together in open fermenters for 7 days while being pumped over twice daily by hand. They then mature together for 24 months in 20% new French and 80% seasoned puncheons. Our best estimate is 85% Grenache, 15% Mataro. Tasting Notes: Layered notes of cherry, raspberry compote, dark chocolate, and dried spice. The Grenache sings through on the palate with red and dark berry fruits backed by the earthy savory finish that only Mataro can provide. A medium bodied Grenache wine with plenty of fine structural tannins that finishes long. The wine has sufficient structure to reward patient cellaring for at least a decade. Delicious paired with great salumi. Reviews: “The mataro is so pronounced here – it gives off an earthy, almost minty aroma of mulberries and licorice root. The palate is where the grenache shines, it is redolent of raspberry and dustings of raw cocoa. There is a lot of pleasure here.” - 94 Points. Erin Larkin, 2023 Wine Companion 2018 Hutton Vale Farm Grenache Mataro