Old Vines Mencia

Red

Modern Mencia is likened to Cabernet Franc or Rhone Syrah. Like us, more reviewers note the similarity to Burgundy’s bright, cherry inflected Pinot Noirs. Some even admit that they do not have the words to describe the alluring wine. It is truly compelling and a great discovery! The source vines average 50 years but many have seen 100 harvests. Their tiny yields mean very concentrated flavors. The wine ferments on virgin, crushed, Mencia grapes from the ancient vineyards. We include light toast Hungarian oak cubes to be added post-fermentation. This contributes light toasty and vanilla notes while letting the bright cherry, slate and spice elements dominate the wine.

Downunder Trio - Cab/Grenache/Shiraz

Red

The resultant blends reflect the structure and vivacity of Cabernet, the bright red fruit and lower tannin attributes of Grenache as well as the spiciness of Shiraz. In a broad generalization we could suggest that this is comparable to Europe’s tradition of blending Cabernet, Merlot and Cab Franc but with Australia’s more pronounced fruit aromas and flavours. We like the combination and are pleased to be able to offer it in our Limited Release program this year. The blend is not new but Cellar Craft’s difference for the wine hobbyist is fermentation on virgin, area and varietal specific crushed grapes plus 2-stage oaking. Like most Australian wines, this will show well when young but can be expected to develop for at least a year. The fruit-forward style makes the wine a great social choice as well as being a versatile choice for meals around the barbie.

Quartet Syrah

Red

Each new region can produce good to excellent examples of Syrah but each, because of unique climatic, weather and soil factors as well as vineyard practices develop distinctive, traits that make them unique to the source region. Never before have juices and crushed grapes from the vineyards of 4 of the leading new Syrah producing areas been combined into one wine. The combined must in the kit allows each of the stocks from Australia, South Africa, Washington and California to co-ferment thereby releasing traits of each region’s signature style but also synergistically creates a wine that suggests its own exclusive profile. A wine discovery that cannot be experienced anywhere else! If you have enjoyed Syrah (or Shiraz) from one or more regions we think that you must experience this world first. A similar sensory experience and wine discovery may never again be available in your lifetime. A must try to add to your discovery of Syrah!

Yakima Synergy II

White

Both Marsanne and Roussanne are still in short supply in Washington but we have been following their development and been very pleased with the early wine trials. This year, for the first time, we have secured enough to of both to offer you a limited supply for a sneak preview of these Rhone mainstays as grown in Washington. Marsanne has interesting body that almost suggests waxiness. Melon and nutty notes lead the sensory impression while a background of mineral adds depth and intriguingly different aromatics. Viognier is all about fruit and spice. Aromatics of peach, apricot, melon, guava and violets elevate the wine’s nose. Fruit and spice flavours lift the palate. Roussanne adds acid balance, introduces more nuttiness, rose and honeysuckle notes. The wine ferments and finishes dry but has a round and full mouth-feel. You might consider this as an alternative to unoaked Chardonnay.