Giant Steps Syrah Carignan Grenache 2019

Trophy – Best Red Blend of Show
Royal Queensland Wine Show 2019

The Syrah comes from the Sexton and Tarraford Vineyards, the Carignan and the Grenache are grown at the Tarraford Vineyard. The Syrah is predominantly the Red Dog 67 clone that we have propagated from our original block 2 vines – that clone is unique to Tarraford and carries a special perfume. Each variety and parcel is fermented separately in small open vats with varying degrees of whole bunch and whole berry fermentation, before being matured in large and small oak for 18 months. The final blend was completed in the Spring of 2020 and left in tank to settle and come together until bottling just before Christmas, by gravity, no fining, no filtration. 85% Syrah, 11% Carignan, 4% Grenache

This blend is inspired by the band of fresh delicious early drinking reds being produced in the cool regions of Australia.

“Made from a blend of grape varieties more likely to be found in the south of France than in the Yarra Valley, this moreish young red does a lovely job of coupling easy drinkability with plenty of aromatic and flavour interest. Bright and purplish in colour, the nose harmoniously couples cherry-like fruit with sweet and savoury spice and herb aromas, against a warm earthy background. It’s medium-bodied, soft, ripe and spicy in flavour, suggesting a significant whole berry component, and it flows smoothly through the palate, fresh with mouth-watering acidity and balanced by soft, friendly tannins.” – 94 Points Ralph Kyte-Powell