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2012 Massena The Howling Dog Petite Sirah

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$34. 99
Bottle
$419.88 Dozen
Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2019-2020)
ABV: 14.5%
Closure: Stelvin
In the early days when conducting small experimental trials of Petite Sirah (Durif) Massena found that the wines produced were rich and deep, but had pronounced tannins that caused tasters to release a slight howl as the wine crossed the palate – thus the name Howling Dog. Today the wine is produced by leaving some parcels of fruit on skins for up to 8 weeks to integrate the tannins and produce a wine that is a lot softer and more approachable when young. Maturation takes place in a combination of new and used French barriques and puncheons.

‘A monster wine with a level of concentration and power that rivals some of Warrabilla’s best.’

Spectacular colour displaying an impenetrable inky black purple core with a dense black purple hue showing paint like cling to the sides of the glass. On the nose distinctive ripe morello cherry top notes arise from the glass followed by some liquorice, dark chocolate, earthy vanillin oak and spice. A pure concentrate, waves of fruit saturate the palate with a degree of power and richness that only Durif can deliver. Mouthfilling flavours of ripe morello cherries and liquorice are followed by some chocolately vanillin oak, subtle earth and spice. Firm solid tannins impart a chewy finish but are otherwise completely concealed beneath a wall of fruit. Exceptionally long and powerful aftertaste of fully ripened morello cherries, liquorice, dark chocolate and spice. Massena continues their dream run with the 2012 vintage wines.

Cellar 5-6 years.

Alc 14.5%