The Vintage
Above average autumn rains set the vines up well. There was some heat during flowering which reduced crop levels, but with no ill-effects on quality. There was some more warm weather in January as the reds were going through verasion, this did no damage, but did encourage an early start to vintage. The day time temperatures were mild through out ripening with mild to cool nights.

The Characteristics
The nose initially displays an enticing mix of red and black fruits. Mulberries, ripe raspberries and blackberries are very pure. Complexity is built through the layers of exotic spice that support this fruit. Nutmeg, cinnamon, clove and anise are all evident. And of course, it wouldn’t be The Footbolt with out that generous lick of d’Arenberg earth and game. On the palate the wine is rich, concentrated and generous. There is an intrinsic warmth to this wine. The dark plummy fruit , leather and cedar notes are inviting, but it is the soil like tannins with a hint of chewiness that pull it all together for a long, gratifying finish.

The Footbolt Shiraz has proven to cellar well for at least a decade and the 2010 is certainly no exception. Our minimal intervention methods sometimes result in a harmless deposit in or adhering to the bottle. Decanting prior to serving is recommended to get the most enjoyment from this wine.

Technical Information
Harvest Dates: 2 March 2011
Alcohol by Volume: 14.41%
Chief Winemaker: Chester d’Arenberg Osborn
Titratable Acid: 7 g/L
Oak Maturation: 12 months in new and older French and American Oak and large casks
pH: 3.41
Additional Info: Vegan friendly
Senior Winemaker: Jack Walton
Residual Sugar: 3.1g/L

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