Charles Melton Nine Popes 2018

Charlie Melton uses a range of different techniques in the production of the Nine Popes. The fermentation was carried out with indigenous yeasts at relatively cool temperatures (18-23ºC) to retain elegant fruit flavours. With both traditional pump-overs and hand plunging. A portion of whole bunches was used in the Grenache ferments, some of which were co-fermented with the Shiraz. After the fermentation, the wine was left in contact with its lees and underwent periodic lees stirring. It was aged in predominantly French oak barriques and foudres for two years. Before bottling, the wine was racked but no fining agents were used. Deep red with a hint of an amber edge. The nose is intense with ripe red fruit flavours intermingled with sweet spice and salted caramel. Beautifully balanced with a plump mouthfeel and soft tannins, it culminates in a long savoury finish. 49% Grenache/Garnacha, 48% Syrah/Shiraz, 3% Mataro