A bright and clear medium ruby colour. Lavender, blue fruits and smoked-meats on the nose. The palate is medium to full-weighted, smoked and charred meats, blackberries and dried herbs wash throughout. A well-built interplay of bright acid and savoury tannins gives a sense of tension, which in turn runs it long into the finish. Still all very primary so give it some cellar time for now
92 points, The Real Review (February 2021)
Region
McLaren Vale
The McLaren Vale wine region is located between the Mount Lofty Ranges and the Gulf of St Vincent just South of Adelaide in South Australia. Historically it was John Reynell who established Chateau Reynella in 1838, and Thomas Hardy who purchased the historic Tintara in 1876, that kick started the development of the McLaren Vale wine industry. The climate is generally considered warm, although different aspects, altitude and the effect of the cooling ocean breezes moderate the climate within the different sub-regions of the Vale. A large number of soil types are present, although red-brown loams dominate. The biggest viticultural challenge is the potential for drought and the overall lack of water. Full bodied, robust and plush reds typify the McLaren Vale style. Plantings are dominated by Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, with smaller plantings of whites including Semillon, and Chardonnay. More recent plantings of Mediterranean varieties particularly suited to the climate, including Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Mourvedre, Savagnin and Fiano have also been very successful.
Winery
HEIRLOOM VINEYARDS
Heirloom vineyards is the venture of husband and wife duo Zar and Elena Brooks. Inspired to make wines using Old World techniques, the couple established Heirloom in 2004, sourcing fruit from unique old vineyards in South Australia planted with the best clones, in the best sites. Elena is the winemaker and viticultural practices follow organic and biodynamic principles. Heirloom vineyards produce a range of wines including Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay Pinot Noir and Tempranillo, Barossa Valley Shiraz, Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon, Eden Valley Riesling and Shiraz and Fleurieu Peninsula Cabernet Sauvignon.
