2010 Hentley Farm Shiraz The Beauty
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2010 ‘The Beauty’ Vineyard
The Beauty block is grown at the lowest point of the Hentley Farm vineyard, directly on the banks of Greenock Creek. The western aspect results in a shaded morning; the low topographical position is where cool air settles; and the large gum trees surrounding the block create significant barriers to air movement, so
cool air remains present well into the morning. This results in early morning air temperatures 2-3 degrees cooler than the higher Shiraz blocks, and a 2-3 week later harvest. - Vineyard Manager, Greg Mader
Vintage
2010 – Apart from a short and early heat-wave in November and two short temperature spikes in January, the 2010 vintage was smooth sailing throughout.
Above average winter rainfall (the best levels in 5 years), average to warm Spring temperatures, constant sunlight exposure and dry conditions saw a return to early harvest dates, and late season conditions were ideal. Possibly the best vintage seen by Hentley Farm so far.
Winemaking
Following an initial temperature spike, 1/3 of the wine was drained off into barrel and put through primary fermentation and malolactic fermentation in oak to retain fresh aromatics, palate softness and add complexity. 3% Viognier pressings were added to the remainder during fermentation, following which the wine was pressed out to a combination of new (40%) and old French barrels where it underwent natural malolactic fermentation. It was then racked off lees and
returned to wood to mature for a total of 18 months. – Winemaker, Andrew Quin
Variety
Shiraz (co-fermented with Viognier) - Single estate
Cnr Gerald Roberts Rd and Jenke Rd, Seppeltsfield Email: info@hentleyfarm.com.au Tel: +618 8562 8427 Fax: +618 8562 8037
www.hentleyfarm.com.au
Analysis: Alcohol 14.4% Acid 6.9 pH 3.54
Bottled: 29 October 2011
Drink: now - 2020+
Profile
Complexity, softness and aromatic lift have always been the key characteristics of The Beauty, and this vintage is no different. The dominant aromatic of black fruit combines with a complex array of aromas such as macerated berries, white flowers, spicy clove, chocolate and vanillin. The palate is incredibly soft, even and consistent, providing the perfect balance of fruit, acid, tannin and oak.