2006 Heathcote Estate Grenache Noir
The site, the fruit
This Heathcote grenache noir is medium-bodied with raspberry, blackberry and cherry characters and hints of earthiness.
The Craft
The grapes were fermented in open fermenters after four days of cold soaking and then plunged three times per day. The wine was kept on skins for one week after fermentation was completed before pressing directly into barriques for malolactic fermentation. The resultant wine was then racked twice before bottling in June.
The Result
This medium bodied grenache noir has aromas of raspberry, blackberry and cherries with hints of earthiness. The flavours reflect the aromas and the palate structure is medium bodied and rich with fine tannins and a lingering finish. This wine will continue to age well for up to five years (and perhaps longer) under ideal storage conditions.
Technical Details
| Growing Region | Heathcote |
| Grape Variety | Grenache 93% Shiraz 7% |
| Alcohol | 14.5% |
| Acidity | 6.5g/l |
| pH | 3.5 |
| Aging | 12 months in four and five year old French Oak Barriques (Allier, Nevers and Troncais forests) |