Introduction

Exile is named after the CD 'Exile on Main Street' by the Rolling Stones. It is a single vineyard wine based on the oldest and finest vineyards in the Barossa Valley.

Tasting Notes

Deep and dark centre with maroon and cherry red colour hue. Lusciously provocative with cherry and blackberry notes on the nose followed by layers of earth, dark plums, coffee and pepper. Still very youthful upon release being bright and concentrated which reflects it will cellar well so we suggest decanting well before consumption if drunk early. There are some evident notes of fresh cut plum, blackberry, juicy cassis, dried spice and melted dark chocolate. The underlying earthy character becomes more apparent when allowed to breathe; this also allows the layers of tannin to become more apparent whilst a slight touch of natural fruit acid and the solid core of well integrated oak will ensure longevity and development in the bottle.

The Winemaking

2016 was a stunning vintage: we were blessed with perfect conditions, which ensured excellent quality fruit, despite yields being well below average. The bulk of the fruit was sourced from an old vineyard in Marananga, which is dry grown and includes a block of vines over 110 years in age. The vines that make up Exile were pruned severely and received a run of green harvesting finally producing just one and a half tonne to the acre maximum. The fruit was basket pressed and fermented in small 1 and 2 tonne fermenters. It was hand plunged daily and matured for an extended period on lees to maintain the fruit profile and ensure it is a pure reflection of the vineyard. We matured the wine in Hogheads and Puncheon barrels for 24 months prior to being bottled with minimal filtration.

Region Barossa Valley
Cellaring Ready to drink now, but will age well for the next two decades
Alcohol 14.5%

Accolades