2024 Eden Valley Field Blend

Whilst the Mengler Hill vineyard has plantings dating back almost a century, we are just beginning our journey with this beautiful site!

Nestled amongst the old vines there is a sprinkling of white varietals from which we have created this 2024 Field Blend.

As typically occurs with older vineyard plantings, which are taken from mass selection cuttings and then planted out, there is often several other ‘rogue’ varieties amongst the vines. We have discovered Semillon, Crouchen, White Frontignac and Viognier, all in very small volumes, amongst the red varieties.

So we picked these separately and have had a creative play, bringing this tiny limited release of just 1212 bottles.

We harvested each variety individually, selecting a date that captured the optimal ripeness for each block. A portion was chosen for skin fermentation and maturation, which took place in puncheons with the heads removed, allowing extended skin contact before resealing to minimize air exposure. The remaining portion, primarily Viognier and Semillon, underwent wild fermentation as whole juice, pressed off the skins. Both batches then aged for several months in seasoned French oak, followed by blending trials to ensure the components harmonised perfectly. - Jules Ashmead & Brock Harrison

Alcohol: 12.60%

Aroma: Gorgeous floral aromatics tempered with apricots and orange blossom freshness

Appearance:

Taste: A vibrant burst of guava and rich fruit, balanced by a soft silky texture with subtle hints of stone fruit. There is a depth to the palate, with bright acidity lifting the finish, perfectly cushioned by the fruit's richness.

Mouthfeel: Fragrant yet focused

Ageing Process: Oak fermented and malolactic fermentation in French oak (part on skins), held on lees with some stirring for 6 months

Drink now or cellar confidently for 5+ years