2019 Patrick Sullivan Rain
Farmer-winemaker Patrick Sullivan can do it all. From tending to vines in rural Victoria at just age 12 on a school excursion to picking up a degree in viticulture, Patrick has now settled in West Gippsland. Farming biodynamically alongside the iconic Bill Downie, his "Tumblestone Farm" property consists of 69 hectares of ultra close-spacing vineyards (7000 vines/ha - woof) nestled amongst an acacia forest. Sitting on basalt volcanic soils over sandstone at the base of the Strzelecki Ranges, Patrick's wines are electric, inspired and truly world class. Carbonic cabernet franc meets gris fermented on skins for 30 days. Both portions are blended to puncheon to settle out together. Bright and juicy with "soft tannin akin to a great Barolo", says Patrick. Red cherry and raspberry with a herbal edge and helping of spice, this is a good time.
Varietal: Cabernet Franc, Pinot Grigio.
Region: Gippsland, VIC.
Viticulture: Biodynamic.