Mitolo, `Jester` McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

PRODUCER

Mitolo is a family owned winery established in 1999 by Frank Mitolo. Mitolo's vision is to create individual, handcrafted premium wines built on passion and an uncompromising commitment to quality. Winemaker Ben Glaetzer became a partner in the business in 2001. The fusion of Frank's intimate knowledge of the land and business acumen with Ben's winemaking talent has led to the creation of one of Australia's most exciting wineries.

VINEYARDS

Fruit comes from 20 year-old vines planted at the southern end of McLaren Vale, about 4km east of the coastal town of Port Willunga. At 25 metres above sea level, the soils are heavy grey loam mixed with black Biscay clay and sit above ancient Gnaltinga formation bedrock. Strong vine growth is tempered by dry summer winds and cooling afternoon sea breezes, allowing the grapes to develop pure, bright and savoury fruit flavours.

VINTAGE

The 2017 vintage was very cool and mild, which was ideal for the vines. Good winter and spring rains were followed by long, mild summer. The results are wines with intense fruit complexity and great natural acidity.

VINIFICATION

20% of the grapes were dried using the ancient Italian Appassimento technique on racks prior to fermentation, for approximately 7-8 weeks. The remaining grapes were fermented on skins for 6-10 days at cool temperatures to enhance pure berry fruit. The separate batches were blended and racked to old French oak for 14 months before bottling.

TASTING NOTES

Silken, savoury and medium-bodied. Ripe cassis flavours are followed closely by a complex mix of savoury characters with cigar-box, brambles and earthy undergrowth notes. A lovely, tight spine of acidity runs through the palate.