2018 Murdoch Hill Red Blend

WINEMAKER: Michael Downer
REGION: Adelaide Hills, SA
VARIETAL: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tannat, Syrah
VITICULTURE: Organic/Sustainable

A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot (plus 8% tannat and 2% Syrah) from Murdoch Hill's Oakbank and Lenswood vineyards in the Adelaide Hills respectively. The grapes are sourced from predominately east-facing slopes, which avoid the harsh afternoon sun and produce cool, savoury wines with more finesse. The soil structure here is predominately sandy loam over medium clay, with varying levels of ironstone, quartz and schist rock. Whole bunches were hand-harvested, then de-stemmed into open fermenters before extended maceration on skins for two to four weeks, allowing Michael Downer to build in layers and sculpt a soft tannin profile. The wine was matured in fine French barriques (20% new) for 10 months before bottling.

After stints at Vietti, Best's and Shaw+Smith, Michael Downer returned to the family estate in 2012. Alongside taking over winemaker duties, he revitalised their 20 hectares by introducing organic principles and planting new varieties. High quality fruit and outstanding winemaking, Murdoch Hill is going from strength to strength.