A hogshead is another name for a great big barrel, something you'll be wishing this wine was sold in once you pop it open. Built on the partnership formed by South Australian wine grower Jim Zerella and Nicholas Crampton the result is not only a blend of their different skills and backgrounds, but also of fruit from three key regions; Central South Australia, McLaren Vale, and the Barossa.
The result certainly pulls no punches with a dark purple colouring matched by an uplifted and intensely aromatic nose loaded with ripe dark fruits, earthiness, and sweet smoked spice. There is a degree of excess in the flavour with violets and exotic spice complementing the fruit. It’s been said that the road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom, in this case the phrase rings true.
WINEMAKING: De-stemmed before a long, cool maceration with regular pumping over. Maturation is partially in stainless steel (aiding aromatics and fruit expression), partially in seasoned French and American oak for three months and partially in 300l French Hogshead barrels for a full bodied and complex flavour. 2014 across much of South Australia can be characterised by tiny yields, unsettled weather and very good wine. A cold start to Spring disrupted flowering and significantly reduced yields. As is often the case, the weather flipped with two heatwaves and then heavy rains – however the small berries and bunches handled the conditions before relatively benign Autumn conditions. The result crop was for many the smallest on record but the fruit is outstanding - balanced and intensely flavoured.
Don't Pay: $20.00
WBW Rating: 94/100
Closure: Stelvin
Region: South Australia
Winemaker: Jim Zerella & Nicholas Crampton
Drink now until: 2025
Alc/Vol: 14.6 %
