Hand picked, racked to used oak for natural 10-day fermentation, the barrels topped and stirred for eight months. I'm convinced fiano has an exceptional future in many parts of Australia, what with its inbuilt texture, structure and savoury citrus flavours. This is a fine example of the variety. 93 points.
James Halliday
Published 02 August 2023.
Region: Hunter Valley, NSW
Winemaker: Adrian Sparks
Growing Conditions A beautiful growing season, with dry weather during winter followed by gentle spring rains rejuvenating the vineyards. Healthy vines with a perfect balance between canopy and crop and an abundance of water made one of the hottest years on record easy to manage with grapes harvested at normal to later times than in previous years. Great flavours and wonderful acidities a feature of 2019.
Colour Pale Straw.
Aroma Hints of citrus, pear, and white peach are harmoniously integrated with spice, milk bottle and guava. .
Palate An intense, textural palate of ripe citrus fruit with excellent length and balance.
Vinification/Maturation Hand picked off young vines, crushed to tank before being racked to old puncheons for natural fermentation. This was complete 10 days later and the barrels were topped and stirred for 8 months.
