Lethbridge Indra Shiraz 2018

Accolades:
95/100 – James Halliday Wine Companion (2017 vintage)

The Story: “I have always thought that grapes are an autumn fruit. I know that this is a controversial idea and one that will make some of my winemaking friends defensive. This theory has been fermenting in the back of my mind for the last 20 years and has only clarified since I have been making Southern Italian varieties from warm climates such as Heathcote. Thousands of grape varieties exists however, only a handful are grown in each prestigious wine-growing region. Think Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Burgundy or Nebbiolo and Barbera from Piedmont. This would suggest that certain grapes do well in certain climatic conditions. No debate here. Here is my contentious point; for classic varieties grown in their traditional homes, there is a strong correlation between their best vintages and an autumn harvest. This is because grapes picked in autumn have the best natural balance of sugar, acidity, tannin and flavour. The grapes in this bottle were picked on the 9th April. Definitely autumn in the Southern Hemisphere.” – Ray Nadeson

Tasting Note: Perfume, spice and all things nice! The 2018 Indra was made with 80% whole bunch and a drop of Viognier co-fermented for aromatics. Violets, lavender and dried herbs with pepper and black plums riding the tannins through the finish.