2021 Duke Reserve Grenache - Cov

Place Very much a sentimental favourite, the Duke is carefully composed from two single Grenache vineyards in Watervale, Clare Valley, aged 72 and 78 years respectively. Both vineyards dry farmed, hand pruned and hand harvested. Vintage Conditions A dry cool autumn in 2021 lead into good winter rains. Above average spring showers rainfall gave way to a very cool, dry summer. These conditions slowed the grapes ripening, resulting in an abundance of flavour and excellent natural acid. Overall conditions were reminiscent of those seen a decade ago, ideal for the variety, making it a rare vintage where quantity is generous, and quality exceptiona Winemaking Parcels selected for power and varietal expression were destemmed and crushed into small open fermenters where they were held on skins for an extended period to integrate flavour, colour and tannin. Basket pressed to seasoned French oak Puncheons for 15 months allowed for gentle development and the accumulation of complexity