Imprimata Grenache 2012
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Parker
Robert
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Full-bodied, rich and satiny textured in the mouth, it offers plenty of red fruit and baking spice layers in the long finish.
Concurrent with his passion for seeking out Australia's best wines, Hammerschlag began his quest for the perfect piece of property for his own wine. His search ended at one of the highest points in McLaren Vale in the sub-district of Seaview, known for producing fruit with a track record for the highest quality. The Imprimata vineyard consists of ironstone and clay over limestone and benefits from cool maritime breezes each afternoon. Upon securing this location, Hammerschlag got to work in the vineyard selecting 2 clones of Shiraz: 1654, which is very typical of South Australia and Tabhilk, sourced from the oldest winery in Victoria and more reminiscent of the northern Rhone. In addition to Shiraz, the vineyard is also planted with Petite Sirah, a varietal that is naturally higher in acid, tannin and color, thereby enhancing the wine's mineral character and providing structure to the blend.
His Winemaker: With a relationship rooted in 10 years of friendship, Ben Glaetzer and Benjamin Hammerschlag share a common vision of producing wines that while they exhibit a distinct ripeness, richness and power also are balanced and vibrant.
Grenache thrives in any warm, Mediterranean climate where ample sunlight allows its clusters to achieve full phenolic ripeness. While Grenache's birthplace is Spain (there called Garnacha), today it is more recognized as the key player in the red blends of the Southern Rhône, namely Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and its villages. Somm Secret—The Italian island of Sardinia produces bold, rustic, single varietal Grenache (there called Cannonau). California, Washington and Australia have achieved found success with Grenache, both flying solo and in blends.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.