PAXTON 2021 GRACIANO

2021 was one of those dream vintages that don’t come along every year; cool, refreshing nights and dreamy, sun-kissed days without any extended stretches of intense heat. After a warmer than usual November there were only four days above 40 degrees. It was mainly dry throughout the ripening season with the odd spattering of just enough rain to keep the grapes beautifully plump, juicy, and full of bright fruit flavours and time to dry out in between so disease pressure was low. The gentle undulation between these varying temperatures and perfectly healthy canopies allowed us to ponder picking times, spending plenty of time out in the vineyard tasting grapes getting the timing of picking just right. The generous harvest has rewarded us with delightfully delicate fruit and varietal characters, with each variety singing its own tune. Natural acids are in perfect balance and the smooth, sensuous tannins are completed by an epic energetic vibration that we can’t wait to share with you.

Vinification

A cool vineyard and a late ripening variety mean this wine is fermented in open fermenters at cool temperatures at the end of March. Lovingly hand plunged and tasted daily, waiting for the moment it all comes together. Malolactic fermentation in used French oak puncheons and aged there for 7 months before blending and encapsulating the delicious flavor in bottle.

Technical Details

Alcohol: 13.5%`
Winemaker: Ashleigh Seymour
Drink with: Curries or spicy Asian-style dishes
Cellaring: A fantastic wine to drink when young, however careful cellaring of 5-15 years will be rewarded
Variety: Graciano
Region: McLaren Vale
Vineyard: Thomas Block
Color: Highlighter red