The Brunette 2009

2009 HEAD ‘The Brunette’ Syrah, Single Vineyard, Moppa (198 cases) – Winemaking here is a little more traditional with plenty of foot-treading and whole bunches (approx 20% in 2009).  I did not chase colour or extraction for the Brunette as I feel the wine loses out in other areas. This wine presents finesse and balance for a finer experience at the table, hence the reference to the French varietal name for Shiraz – ‘Syrah’.  One new 300L 3 year air dried (traditional is 2 years) barrel and the rest one and two year old support and mould the natural fruit and stem tannin well. No fining or filtration. The nose shows liquorice, aniseed, incense and spices.  The palate swirls with blackcurrant and raspberry fruit pastilles, boiled lollies and Black-Forrest Gateau.  There is an underlying strength or unctuousness to the minerally acidity that hints at cellaring potential.  The tannins are already supple and chewy, leaving a lingering black fruit liqueur coating in the mouth. Drink 2012- 2030+.