This 2024 Hogan Carignan from Wellington was harvested on January 26th from a 20-year-old, unirrigated, southwest-facing bush vine vineyard with oakleaf/tukulu soils. Sustainable practices are key here, including mulching, manual weeding, and cover crops due to the warm climate. The grapes were crushed, destemmed, and gently fermented in an open-top fermenter with minimal punch-downs.
“Grapes from a Wellington vineyard planted in 2004. Red and black berries mingle with wilder nuances of lavender, herbs and even a touch of meatiness. The palate has both big volume and big acidity – ample fruit giving way to a spicy finish. If ever a wine deserved to be called “boisterous,” this is it. Alc: 14%. 92/100” – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za