d'Arenberg Vintage Fortified Shiraz 2014 | 50cl
From the first declared vintage in 1928, the d'Arenberg fortified wines have been Shiraz based, and the vines that produced the original vintage still provide the grapes for this wine. These old vines are stumpy, gnarled and deep rooted, distinguished by their small bunches of highly coloured and intensely flavoured grapes.
Small batches of grapes are gently crushed and then transferred to five tonne headed down open fermenters. Foot treading is undertaken two thirds of the way through fermentation. The wine is then basket pressed and a small amount of fine, fortifying brandy spirit is added, ending fermentation and retaining the sweet fruit richness of the style. The Vintage Fortified does not spend any time in wood prior to bottling.
What a luxurious wine. So lifted on the nose, laden with sweet berry fruit and peppery spice. Then that palate oozing sweet black and raspberry liquorice which completely balances out the elevated alcohol. Thick and concentrated but somehow still fresh. Mid palate generosity gathered back together with fine stony tannins that draw the wine out to a long, long finish. Rich, warm and lingering. All that’s missing now is the open fire.
