Henschke Rosé Growers Nebbiolo 2019

It is believed that the name nebbiolo is derived from the Italian word nebbia, meaning fog. The Henschke nebbiolo and barbera vines were planted in 2002 on rocky soils on an elevated foggy north facing slope at the source of the North Para River, at the top of the range overlooking the village of Eden Valley. The wine is named after the Roesler family, who managed the property as a dairy for generations. In the German language, Roesler is an occupational name for ‘rose grower’.

Vintage 2019 shaped up to be a challenging one, with below-average yields, however the quality was very high, with beautiful expressions of varietal character and generally good balance and structure. The hand-picked fruit that arrived at the winery in the cool of the morning was clean, with good concentrated flavours. A dry winter, spring and summer with warmer than average temperatures in January and February lead to the advancement of maturity of all grape varieties in the Eden Valley and an early onset of vintage. The later-ripening varieties, riesling and cabernet were standouts, however most varieties were of a very high standard, including shiraz despite miniscule yields.

Brick red with ruby hues. Fragrant and complex aromas of rosehip, red cherry and green gage plum, revealing sea spray, crushed herbs, musk, red liquorice and hints of tomato stem. A rich, textural and intense palate, with supple red currant, and savoury notes of tomato passata, root vegetables and turned earth. Fine yet firm, mature tannins provide an elegant and long finish.