WINEMAKER Marc Scalzo
VINEYARD
The fruit was grown on our De Bortoli Shelleys Vineyard. As our Vineyards have matured, our canopy and crop management have been finely tuned and our fruit more balanced, resulting in wines that are better structured and more intense in flavour. We have selected ten rows of Durif to produce our Single Vineyard, ultra-premium flagship wine.
SEASON
The start of the growing season held promise with warmer than average temperatures, but small and regular rain meant that growth was even and strong through Spring. The Summer period was above the long term average. This placed a strain on the vines, but with careful monitoring and irrigation the vines got through the January period with reduced berry size and yields, and in reasonable condition. This careful vineyard management of both vine canopy and irrigation was the key to resulting in a strong year for the Rutherglen reds.
WINEMAKING
Selected from our best Durif blocks, the 2019 Renaissance Durif is partially crushed into red fermenters. The colour and tannin were extracted early in the fermentation when longer pump overs were used to ensure a softer extraction. The fruit is picked when the tannins are ripe and the grapes are still plump and fresh. The wine is fermented on skins for 10 to 14 days to keep a bright and vibrant fruit profile. The wine is aged in majority French oak, with a small proportion of American oak. This combination gives tightness and roundness on the palate whilst helping to soften the tannins, finishing with intensity and balance to finish with a premium finish.
TASTING NOTES
Deep dark brooding red with vibrant red hues. This Renaissance Durif has balanced dark berry, chocolate, and licorice with the integrated oak. The grainy tannins are lip coating and are integrated into the soul of the wine. The wine has intensity and power which lingers long after tasting. Complex aromas of dark berries, plums, prunes, licorice with nuances of dried tobacco.
WINE ANALYSIS
Alc/Vol: 14.9 %, pH: 3.59, TA: 6.1g/l
CELLARING
Our Renaissance Durif is made to cellar. It expresses its drinkability now but will continue to soften over the next 8 years. This particular wine will cellar nicely for up to 20 years.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Vegetarian
FOOD PAIRING
Try a red wine braised beef with baby onions and carrots, or Indian lamb shanks with parsnip mash. |
