90/100
4 Stars
Huon Hooke
Light-medium colour with a reserved bouquet showing a suggestion of nutty barrel work, a whiff of spiced honey as it aired, savoury and yet rich in the mouth with some viscosity and straightforward flavour. There is a touch of apparent sweetness and the finish is dry-balanced and smooth. (Fermented in 100% new French puncheons. Grapes from the Adair's Lane vineyard in southern Heathcote)
Tasted: 27/11/2025
Drink: 2025 to 2032
A single vineyard wine coming exclusively from our Adairs Lane Vineyard in the south-west of the region, only 4km from the winery. 2024 was incredible for Roussanne. Perfect ripening conditions allowed us to create a wine of absolute varietal purity. The vines are located in the coolest part of the vineyard at the bottom of the hill, growing in clay loams over mudstone and sandstone, and protected from the hot northerly winds by large trees on the roadside. The 2024 Spruce was matured on full yeast lees in 100% new French oak for 10 months prior to bottling.
Straw yellow in colour. Aromas of orchard fruits, a hint of honey and fresh herb. Gosh this tastes good! Glazed pear, apple skin, honeysuckle, almond and crushed herbs, all supported by delightfully integrated oak that is barely noticeable. The texture is very appealing, giving weight but also slipperiness into a long dry finish. 13.6% Vol. Drink now until 2040, depending on your cellaring conditions and flavour preferences. Best serving temperature of 10-12°C.