But a heat spike in January 2010 with a week of 35 degree plus (unheard of in Margaret River) bought whites in to line very quickly and within an instant they were coming off somewhat earlier than average. Reds drew out as things cooled off quickly heading into March. Patience to get tannin ripeness in reds proved dividends though an early break to the season with rainfall had us on the edge of the seat
Vinification:
Grapes are fermented in small open vats allowing precise judgements as fermentation proceeds, and colour, flavour and tannins are extracted from the skins. Towards the completion of primary fermentation, the skins are pressed and the wine run to barrel for finishing and maturation. The blend is assembled in late summer, prior to bottling ahead of the next vintage.
Season
With El Nino has come a progressively reduced rainfall over the last four years. Spring has been a little wetter and summer has had more temperature extremes. In 2009 spring was once again wet and blustery and looking on track to be something like 2008
Winery information:
All vines on the McHenry Hohnen vineyards are grown on a single bilateral cordon with a vertically trained canopy. It is a simple and practical format that maximises light penetration and maintains a balanced vine.
This is a blend of three family vineyards. Tempranillo fruit comes from McLeod Creek, Graciano from Burnside and the remainder from our Rocky Road Vineyard.
Tasting Note:
Aromas of cherry cola, sarsaparilla and ripe black plum abound. Underlying sweet spice and savoury peanut husk notes complete the complex bouquet. A supple palate brimming with ripe plum and sweet cola nut fruit gives way to red strap liquorice and dusty cocoa tannins.
Grown in “Tiger Snake Country” this wine is one to sink your teeth into....or should that be fangs?!
Food Recommendation:
Bin No.: 1429
Country: Australia
Region: Margaret River, Western Australia
Producer: McHenry Hohnen
Vintage: 2010 Vintage
Colour: Red
Grape Varieties: Tempranillo
Grape Varieties: Graciano
Grape Varieties: Petit Verdot
Status: Still, Biodynamic Principles
Body Value: (A is light, E is full bodied)
abv: 14.5% Bottle size: 75cl
