2014 Bush Vine Shiraz Grenache Mourvèdre

The Story: “Named after the beautiful old Bush Vine Grenache vineyard owned by mates of mine in McLaren Vale. The Grenache component in this wine is hand picked to best preserve this glorious old vineyard. We have been taking fruit from this block for many years and it’s one of our favourites.” - Geoff Merrill

Vintage Information: The 2014 vintage started out with a wet winter in 2013 with higher than average rainfall which then essentially ceased for the months following. An unexpected burst of heat through spring lead to flowering early. Low rainfall and extremely high temperatures then continued throughout summer.

Immediately following the high temperatures was some cool weather and a large rain event which slowed down ripening, causing quite a gap in vintage. Top wines will be exciting, well balanced acidity and full flavoured with good tannins.

Winemakers Notes: The colour is a bright red with great clarity and depth. The aroma shows complex notes of black olive, chocolate, leather, coffee and clove with ripe berry fruits.

The palate is rich with ripe berry fruits and spice, also showing plum, earth, game and some floral hints. The texture is fine and smooth finishing with well balanced acidity.

Food Pairing: Enjoy with lamb yiros, pork sausages, beef skewers with capsicum and onion, and venison pie.

Winemakers: Geoff Merrill & Scott Heidrich

Variety: Shiraz 52% / Grenache 42% / Mourvèdre 6%

Oak Treatment: 22 months in seasoned American & French oak puncheons.

Region: McLaren Vale

Harvest Date: March 2014

Alc: 14.5%, pH: 3.36, TA: 7.0 g/L, RS: 2.5 g/L