Regional Reserve Shiraz Heathcote 2018

Victoria has many unique wine regions from the cool climate Yarra Valley to the rich cambrian soils of Heathcote. De Bortoli explore each of these renowned regions with the Regional Reserve range.

This Shiraz is sourced from carefully selected parcels grown on red volcanic soils in Northern Heathcote. The wine is deep red with purple edge. On the nose, ripe dark fruit aromas intermingle with notes of brandy, plum, and white pepper. The palate is juicy with plump dark fruits, cedarwood undertones and gentle tannins.

This wine is a made from a selection of vineyards from the Heathcote region in Victoria. Most fruit is sourced from the Northern part of the region where we see plusher styles of Shiraz. Predominant soil types are old volcanic cambrian soils. These soils are red and deep and known for their water retention. Majority of vineyards are VSP trellised to allow good air flow and light for balance fruit ripening and flavours.

This blend predominately comprises of fruit from the Heathcote Ridge, Chinamans Bend and De Bortoli’s Freemans Bridge vineyards. 2018 saw cooler and slightly wetter than average winter, vineyards experienced regular rainfall and warm temperatures throughout the spring which was then followed up with a warm and dry summer with generally lower yields and great fruit concentration.

Fruit is sourced from selected parcels of Shiraz grown on the red volcanic soils of Northern Heathcote. Fruit is harvested at 14.0-15.0 Baume to achieve a balance of fruit ripeness and soft acidity. Grapes are destemmed and crushed into static Potter fermenters. Fermented on skins for up to 14 days prior to pressing and racking. 25% of the blend was matured for 12 months in older casks and the remainder stays in tank for freshness and brightness.

25% of the blend was matured for 12 months in older casks and the remainder stays in tank for freshness and brightness.

Full bodied dry red to drink with a rich Osso Bucco, Game meats or with a selection of strong hard cheeses.