2021 Murdoch Hill Red Blend

A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot (plus 15% Sangiovese and 5% Syrah) from Murdoch Hill’s Oakbank and Lenswood vineyards in the Adelaide Hills respectively. The grapes are sourced from predominately east-facing slopes, which avoid the harsh afternoon sun and produce cool, savoury wines with more finesse. The soil structure here is predominately sandy loam over medium clay, with varying levels of ironstone, quartz and schist rock. Whole bunches were hand-harvested, then de-stemmed into open fermenters before extended maceration on skins for two to four weeks, allowing Michael Downer to build in layers and sculpt a soft tannin profile. The wine was matured in fine French barriques (20% new) for 10 months before bottling.