Michel Chapoutier established Tournon in 2007 shortly after purchasing 50 hectares of property in the heart of the Victorian Pyrenees and Heathcote. He recognized that the cool weather patterns and remarkable diversity of soil and exposures in this region would allow him to make distinctive wines from the Syrah/Shiraz grape of his homeland utilizing his biodynamic winegrowing philosophy. Named after the Hermitage commune, Tournon leads the movement in Australia towards elegant, balanced wines.
Vintage
The 2015 vintage was low yielding with good autumn sunshine and cool evenings which allowed for an even maturation of the grapes
Soil
A mixture of clay, siltstone, quartz and shale on a deep, iron rich subsoil requiring minimal irrigation
Harvesting
Handpicked in late March, with the Grenache in early April, at optimal ripeness in the early morning to retain the natural freshness within the grapes
Vinification
The fruit was destemmed and transferred into a stainless steel tank where it was kept cool until fermentation started naturally. A 4-5 week maceration allowed for maximum colour and the tannins to soften
Maturing
In the style true to Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the Grenache was aged in concrete tanks for 12 months. The Touriga Nacional and Shiraz were matured in a combination of new and old oak for 12 months to increase complexity. At the completion of the maturation the blend was assembled based on taste
Tasting
Colour: Brilliant red, dark, almost opaque
Nose: Bonfire, spice and liquorice with bright berry aromas
Palate: Full flavoured with a combination of ripe, dark fruits and hints of allspice, cloves and a savoury, long finish.
