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Vintage
In stark contrast to 2006 the 2007 vintage was the earliest start to vintage in recorded history at Sandalford Wines. Picking dates were some two to six weeks ahead of the “average”. The main contributors to this were the very warm and dry summer conditions, the cumulative effect of successive years of drought and the ultra cool conditions for the growing season of the 2006 vintage. The other big news out of vintage 2007 was the large reduction in expected crop levels. In some cases expected yields were down 50%. The overall effect however of all the above is that the fruit from this year’s harvest is perfectly ripe, (as is the acid profile) and that fruit flavour and intensity in addition to tannin structure for the reds, is outstanding. This will give great cellaring potential to all those styles suited to longer maturation in bottle.
Label Integrity
100% Riesling (100% Margaret River). 37 yr old dry-grown Estate Wilyabrup vines
Winemaking
Old vine; low-yielding Riesling grapes were machine-harvested on the 10th of February in the cool of night. The fruit was immediately processed and only the first cut, free-run juice underwent a long, slow ferment in stainless steel tanks with a selected yeast strain. At the end of fermentation the wine was immediately stabilised, filtered and bottled mid-June 2007.
Tasting Notes
Given the atypical ripening conditions of 2007 this wine was picked one month earlier than “usual’. The resultant wine whilst brimming with floral citrus notes has an incredible natural acidity perfect for premium Riesling. There is no doubt in our mind that this is a standout year for Margaret River Riesling and possibly in the same league as 2004. Like the previous vintages of this wine cellaring for up to five years really does give these wines some added interest. If you cannot wait that long the fruit flavours and zingy palate are just the thing for current enjoyment. Perfect with almost everything except red meats and strongly flavoured dishes. Always serve chilled.
Assessment
To be reviewed
Awards
To be shown
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