2015 JOHN DUVAL PLEXUS SGM REGION: Barossa, South AustraliaVARIETALS: Shiraz (52%), Grenache (32%), Mourvedre (16%)MATURATION: 15 months in 100% French oak hogsheads (10% new)ANALYSIS: 14.5% alc/vol | 6.06 g/L TA | 3.53 pH VINTAGE: The 2015 vintage started with a warmer than usual spring followed by early, but even, flowering and fruit-set. Frost, particularly in the Northern Barossa reduced yields however the conditions during fruit ripening were pleasingly mild and dry with rain in mid-January brining some welcome relief. WINEMAKING: The Shiraz was sourced from old vineyards in the Tanunda, Krondorf and Ebenezer districts, Grenache from the Tanunda and Ebenezer region, and Mourvèdre from the Light Pass region. Traditional, low intervention techniques are employed. Fermentation occurred with submerged cap and small open stainless steel fermenters. The wine was 100% barrel maturated for 14 months, with just 10% new fine grain French oak hogsheads (300L barrels); with the balance in three to six-year-old barrels. TASTING NOTES: The 2015 Plexus is a vibrant purple with deep red hues. The nose shows aromas of dark berries and bramble with a dusting of spices, licorice and dried herbs The palate is medium bodied with a generous core of ripe black berries and supporting red fruits. Ample structure is provided by fine grainy tannins with a long spicy finish. CRITICAL ACCLAIM: 93 pts Robert Parker Wine Advocate, 90 pts Wine Enthusiast ABOUT JOHN DUVAL: John Duval is one of Australia’s most highly-regarded winemakers. As Chief Winemaker and custodian of Australia’s famous Grange, he was instrumental in establishing Penfolds as one of the world’s great wineries. Inspired by the Barossa Valley’s old vine vineyards, John established his own label in 2002 and now crafts intense, focused wines that are as distinctive as the region’s diverse terroir.
