Willunga 100, Shiraz/Viognier McLaren Vale 2020

Parcels of Shiraz were harvested in late February and March, with each one fermented separately, using open top fermenters. A small part of Viognier was added with the Shiraz, giving an aromatic lift and brightness while also helping to stabilise the colour. Warm fermentation combined with regular pump-overs and plunging ensured optimum extraction. Half the wine was matured in stainless steel with the other half matured in a mixture of barrique and Hogs Heads for 12 months (of which 20% was new). Over the course of the 12 months the wine was racked and returned twice in order to blend portions of the wine maturing in oak and tank.

Willunga 100s focus is very much on premium Grenache, which has been driven by winemaker Mike Farmilo (who has almost 40 years of experience working in McLaren Vale) and consultant Tim James. Mike and Tim spend a lot of time working with the growers to ensure the quality of fruit is up to their exacting standards. In 2015, Willunga made two Hundred single vineyard wines, one from an 80-year-old site in Blewitt Springs, the other from a 97-year-old site in Clarendon. Together the Blewitt Springs and Clarendon single vineyard wines showcase the diversity of McLaren Vale Grenache. The same winemaking techniques were used for both wines, which involved some whole bunch in the blend, ageing on lees in stainless steel for 12 months prior to bottling and no oak ageing. In comparison to Blewitt Springs, Clarendon is higher in altitude and has more of a continental climate with high daytime temperatures and cool nights. Bright, floral and perfumed on the nose with red berry fruits, this expression demonstrates the elegance of McLaren Vale Grenache. Soils in Blewitt Springs are ancient sandy soils with an underlying clay and ironstone base. Warm sunny days and moderating sea breezes characterise the climate in this sub-region. The resulting wine has lovely dark cherry aromas on the nose and a richness and roundness to the palate. Both 2015 wines were recognised for their exceptional quality at Australias Regional Wine Shows in 2016 and 2017. At the McLaren Vale Wine Show 2016, the Clarendon was awarded Gold and Blewitt Springs won two trophies, including Best McLaren Vale Grenache. At both the Adelaide Wine Show and Royal Sydney Wine Show in 2017, Blewitt Springs was awarded Top Gold.