2016 Sangreal By Farr Pinot Noir

The Sangreal Vineyard is the oldest planting (1994) on a north-facing slope of red ironstone on the surface going to limestone to bluestone below. The rows run north to south, gaining full sun exposure throughout the day and resulting in prettier, more perfumed wines. It’s always the first vineyard to be harvested and is consistently made with 60 to 70% whole bunch and aged in new oak for 18 months.

Deep dark red core with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Both potent and captivating, the nose offers up aromas of ripe dark cherries and dark plum subtlety laced with clove. Some ripe strawberry, meaty characters, light forest floor and spicy cedar follow on. Richer and darker than the Farrside, mouthfilling flavours of dark cherries, dark plums and ripe strawberries fan out like a peacocks tail, supplely caressing the palate. The dried clove/whole bunch characters seemingly less evident this vintage. Elements of dried meats, forest floor and spicy cedar ensue. Very polished, seamlessly integrated tannins. Exceptional power and depth with a long, lingering aftertaste of ripe dark cherries, strawberries, dried clove, vanillin cedar, some meatiness and spice.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews….
The vineyard was planted in '94 to clones 114 and 115, believed to have mutated into a single 'Sangreal' clone. Always made with 50-70% whole bunches, and 60-70% new oak maturation for 18 months. While the power of the wine is typical Farr, this vintage bestows a measure of linearity, a sinuous line to the palate that links and loops around the complex flavours of forest floor/spice and wild strawberry. Drink by 2035.
97 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion