Description
Duane Coates is one of the quiet achievers of the Australian Wine Scene (Masters in Oenology and an MBA from Adelaide University & soon to become a Master of Wine). His winemaking philosophy is simple: the highest quality fruit from sustainable vineyards (some organic), harvest when properly ripe and a natural winemaking approach (minimal intervention – wild yeasts, unfined, no additions of tannin, enzyme and acid).
Huon Hooke said: “ Every wine I’ve tasted of McLaren Vale’s Duane Coates has been excellent…” Highly impressive wines – a style that bridges the gap between fruit driven Australian style and savoury complex wines of old world Europe. Lisa Perrotti-Brown, from leading international website erobertparker.com said – “..a breath of fresh air in this area where a lot of producers seem to be following the herd down that incredibly ripe and sometimes over-ripe path that has caused not a few producers to come unstuck in heat-wave and drought conditions. These are superbly-crafted, well-priced wines that are wholeheartedly recommended’
From the winemaker: “The classic Southern Rhone Valley blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre has always been a favourite in the Coates household. The fruit has been sourced from three vineyards; Grenache from Blewitt Springs with Syrah and Mourvèdre from two sites in Willunga.
The Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre grapes were fermented over a period of up to 60 days in an open fermenters. A portion of whole bunch fruit was included in the ferment to provide some ripe stalk tannin and a hint of carbonic maceration to the texture, aroma and flavour profile. Pressing was conducted using a basket press that gives a great flavour and soft tannin profile. Maturation in 20% new French and 80% used French barriques provides a hint of savoury oak character whilst allowing the fruit characters to be expressed unhindered. The use of mixed cooperages (Seguin-Moreau, Nadalie, Marsannay, Remond, Darguad & Jaegle) provides complexity, integration and harmony with our intended style. A single racking and regular topping are the only time the wine is disturbed post malo with 18 months spent in wood. Bottling date is determined when the tannin and oak balance feel right, with a further 3 months spent in bottle prior to release. The traditional approach used to make The GSM precludes the use of the additives and fining agents such as tannins, enzymes, egg, fish or milk products. Bottled unfined and unfiltered in November of 2017.
Light crimson in colour, the vibrant cherry and raspberry fruits are supported by game, white pepper and fresh herb notes. The palate shows taut structure with an array of light forest fruits intertwined with perfume, undergrowth and subtle oak” 14.5% alc.
RRP $30 Special when you buy 6 or more bottles
