VINTAGE SUMMARY The regions milder summer and warm autumn resulted in a gentle and slow ripening period, producing outstanding fruit. We didn’t have one day above 40C and only a handful above 35C. Fantastic conditions for ripening all wine-grape varieties, less so for a knock-off swing and cleansing ale at Port Willunga beach. Yields were generally lower compared to 2021 but flavour intensity is exceptional with amazing levels of natural acidity for both red and white wines. La Nina influenced vintage in much of eastern states, but McLaren ale had its mildest weather conditions in recent memory.

MARCUS ELLIS HALLIDAY : Saperavi is no quiet thing, and though this doesn’t push the boundaries, keeping some freshness of flavour and verve of delivery, there is still the unmistakable plush inkiness one expects. Black plums and blackberry, licorice pastille, pencil/graphite notes and some brooding florals. Pulpy and pithy, unobstructed by winemaking trickery, this is a charmingly robust companion for cool weather and slow cooking. 91 POINTS