McHenry Hohnen, Hazel's Vineyard GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mataro) 2018

Hazel's Hazel's Vineyard GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mataro) 2018, McHenry Hohnen

Margaret River, Australia

Grape Variety: Grenache, Syrah (Shiraz), Mataro

Alcohol: 14.2% ABV

The Story

Biodynamic farming, minimal intervention winemaking, single vineyard wines of Margaret River.

Since its inception McHenry Hohnen has had an unwavering focus on crafting site expressive wines. As the vines age and the soils continue to evolve, the individuality and beauty of the land continually develop in our wines.

The wines of McHenry Hohnen are sourced from the family estate consisting of three vineyards, all located in the southern part of the Margaret River Wine Region: Hazel’s Vineyard and Farm, Calgardup Brook Vineyard and Burnside Vineyard. For decades, founder and owner Murray McHenry has been a leading proponent in pushing the viticultural boundaries of this pristine region. While the portfolio is grounded in Chardonnay and Bordeaux varieties, McHenry Hohnen are also well regarded for less traditional varieties for this region such as Marsanne, Roussanne, Grenache, Mataro and Zinfandel.

McHenry Hohnen see their role as stewards of the land and have implemented organic farming practices for many years to create the optimal conditions for soil health and the quality of the grapes harvested. The winemaking team craft wines that pay homage to the site of origin and use low impact techniques combined with an acute attention to detail to achieve the goal of the finest site specific wines.

Whilst the story of McHenry Hohnen is steeped in the history of the region, we look to the future with anticipation as our soil, vines and wines continue to evolve.

Vineyard & Winemaking

100% Hazel’s Vineyard. Our southernmost vineyard which is more inland than our Burnside and Calgardup vineyards. Hazel’s combines cooling Southern Ocean influences with a northerly aspect and plenty of sunshine. 

A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mataro from our Hazel’s vineyard. Each parcel was harvested and vinified separately using wild yeast in vertical 4 tonne stone fermenters with no temperature control. Grenache was fermented with 100% whole clusters, while only 20% of the Syrah were whole clusters. Mataro was destemmed but not crushed. The fruit spent between 8-14 days on skins before being gently pressed directly into large format oak casks for malolactic fermentation in our underground cellar. The wines remained unsulphured over winter and were racked for the first time at the beginning of spring when they received a minimal sulphur addition. We blended this wine in late December and only gave it a coarse filtration before bottling.

Tasting Notes:

This classic southern Rhone blend bursts with aromas of mulberry and cherry confection over notes of fragrant violets and myrtle pepper. The inclusion of a high percentage of whole clusters in this stellar vintage provides extra lift to the nose with sweetened chai spice aromas, perfectly balanced by a touch of dry herbs and savoury jamon.  The palate is initially juicy and sweet, combining crunchy red plums and red liquorice from the Grenache, with Syrah and Mataro adding structure, spice and savouriness. The finish is persistent with layers of cocoa, coffee liqueur and a frame of firm but fine tannins.

Cellaring & Service

Cellaring Potential: 10-15 years

Serving Temperature: 16–17°C

Allergens: This wine contains sulphites