The Sangiovese is planted on the northern edge of the Toolamba vineyard in some of the best fine sandy loam soil. The variety is notorious for overcropping but careful vineyard management maintained the crop levels to a sensible level from which the production of high quality table wines are produced. Vinification techniques used in Provence have been adopted in making this wine. The fruit is picked earlier than usual followed by minimal processing and regular mixing of the juice in the first four days which adds to the mouthfeel and richness. Fermentation follows with special yeasts commonly used in the South of France and at slightly warmer temperatures than most Australian Rose’ styles which results in greater complexity and retention of freshness and savoury tones.

2019 will be remembered as the hottest summer on record, exacerbated by a dry winter and early spring. The weather bureau had consistently forecast a warmer and drier than normal summer, and this finally eventuated after Christmas. February temperatures were just a fraction above average, but the heat was relentless, and there was no useful rainfall for the month so it remained exceedingly dry. Ripening continued to be steady even though the hot days and warm nights continued, which allowed us to bring in fruit at optimum ripeness. At this early stage, white yields being down on expectations but quality is good with Riesling and Marsanne being the standouts. The reds appear to have fared better yield wise, and have bright fresh fruit, depth of flavour, with rich, full palates. It looks like being a very good year for the reds.