Gladstone Vineyard Sophie's Choice 2009

In the vineyard

The grapes were grown at our home block on 24 year old vines. The site is alluvial sand on river gravel and stones which give great richness as well as typical minerality to the wine. The vines are all meticulously cared for and the fruit hand is picked to ensure absolute quality.

In the winery

The fruit was whole bunch pressed, and the juice was fermented in French oak barrels. After fermentation the wine was matured for a further 10 months with the lees stirred fortnightly to help build the palate-weight and mouth feel of the wine. The wine was racked out of barrel and clarified using traditional methods.

pH 3.64; TA 4.9g/l; RS 0.4g/l;  Alc 14.7%

In the glass

There is an initial aroma of toasted hazelnut, nougat and white chocolate.  The palate is broad and rich with great textural weight.  Oak complexities and a mineral backbone give good structure to the wine while good acidity gives the wine a long finish. Drink now, or cellar for five years.