2022 Plexus Red

Background

A latin word meaning 'a combination of elements into a coherent structure', Plexus was the very first wine released under the John Duval Wines label (2003 vintage). John chose to launch the label with this wine owing to his love of old vine expressions of Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvedre. One of only 100 wines included in the Langtons Classification of Australian Wine.

Conditions

The 2022 vintage was set up beautifully with good soil moisture carrying over from the mild 2021 vintage. A significant October hail event reduced yields in some vineyards, but luckily most escaped without impacting quality. La Nina influenced weather patterns resulted in mild harvest conditions again, allowing for even flavour accumulation and vibrant aromatics and acidity. A standout season.

Winemaking

The parcels of fruit were fermented separately, some with a submerged cap in small open stainless-steel fermenters. A portion of the Grenache ferment included whole bunches to accentuate the savoury aspects of the variety.

Maturation

The wines were barrel maturated for 15 months, with 10% in new fine grain French oak hogsheads and the balance in older seasoned hogsheads.

Grape Variety

43% Shiraz, 41% Grenache, 16% Mourvedre

Closure

Screwcap

Alcohol

14.5%