Planted in 1994, our Heathcote vineyard is situated on a strip of ancient, highly prized Cambrian soil on
the east facing slopes of Mount Camel in Central Victoria, north of the Heathcote township.
These ancient soils are synonymous with the region and gives the wine its unique structure.
The oldest and best blocks were used for the Lunatiq blend.
Solid rains in Heathcote throughout winter and spring set the scene for an ideal growing season. Optimum soil
moisture and mild growing conditions persisted throughout summer. The growing season lasted roughly two
weeks longer than usual. Harvest commenced in late March, which meant the fruit had a longer ripening period
with more hang time on the vine. The 2022 vintage therefore produced beautifully balanced and bold red wines.
The fruit arrived at the winery in near perfect condition, clean turgid and with exceptional colour. With a
portion of the block being handpicked, approximately 17% whole bunches were included, the remaining
fruit was de-stemmed but not crushed to preserve as many whole berries as possible. A three day cold
soak, followed by a 14 day ferment at 23ºC in open top fermenters with gentle pump overs to maximize
flavour and colour without over extracting tannin. The wine was matured in tight grain French oak
barriques (15% new) for 14 months. The best barrels were blended and held until bottling.
Dark, inky purple with a vibrant hue. The nose shows rich dark fruits with the full array of pepper, charcuterie,
and a subtle lift of French Oak. The palate has a richness and softness with dark blue berry fruit chocolate and
some sweet spice. The tannin from the stalk and oak working well together giving length a silky texture and a fine
moreish finish.
Alcohol – 14.8%
Cellaring – 10+ years
