Hill of Roses is produced from a mass selection from the Grandfather vines in the Hill of Grace Vineyard, planted as a nursery block in 1989 by Prue Henschke. The planting is known as the ‘Post Office Block’ after the historic Parrot Hill Post Office ruins overlooking the vineyard. These vines were a mere 12 years old when the wine was first produced in 2001 and while the vines are too young to be considered for inclusion in Hill of Grace, the quality of fruit from this selection has produced a wine that warrants a separate bottling and limited release.
Hill of Roses stands alone with its joyous, aromatic-led personality, its warmth wrapped in dark fruits, earth and woodsy spices, its balance and its length. To borrow from the maker, a "long, linear, cool line of tannin" makes for a relaxed and inviting wine.
Sourced from 29-year-old vines grown on a single block on the Hill of Grace vineyard; matured in French oak (25% new) for 18 months. A core of pure blackberry and dark plum characters leap from the glass along with hints of blackcurrant pastille, sage, bay leaf, dried meats, earth and a gentle violet note. A wonderfully balanced release with a pure, savoury fruit flow flecked with spice and gentle herbs on the finish. Powdered, granitic tannins frame the wine beautifully, finishing mineral-laden with crystal clear definition and impressive persistence.