A key to producing St Hugo is the vineyard selection process. Each Coonawarra vineyard was carefully monitored as ripening progressed and only those parcels exhibiting excellent potential in terms of colour, varietal expression and tannin structure were set aside as candidates for inclusion in the St Hugo blend. All grapes delivered to the winery were de-stemmed and crushed into static and open fermenters. Extraction of colour, flavour and tannin was achieved by “pumping over” regularly, allowing the fermenting juice to percolate through the skins. Full drain and returns were also employed at various stages through fermentation to help build structured yet supple tannin profiles. Once optimum colour, flavour and tannin extraction were achieved, the young wines were drained and pressed from the skins. Malolactic fermentation and 18 months’ maturation took place in 41% new French oak with the balance in a mix of used oak. Tasting of individual parcels revealed those that showed the distinctive regional and varietal characteristics required for St Hugo, and these were used to create the final blend. The wine was matured in bottle prior to release to allow the wine to integrate further.