2024 Single Vineyard 'Iluma' Viognier

Winemaker: Erinn Klein

Grape(s): Viognier

GI: Adelaide Hills (Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia)

Site(s): Iluma Vineyard

Vintage notes: The season began with an early bud burst following a dry spring and early summer. Flowering was strong across our vineyards, resulting in excellent fruit set compared to other parts of the Hills. Mid-season rain boosted yields for all varieties. A mild summer with only one heat spike allowed for slow, steady ripening, delivering wines with concentration, balanced acidity, and long, dense flavours.

Vineyard notes: On the northern slope of the Mount Barker Summit, at an altitude of 420m, is the Iluma Vineyard, home of our most inspiring and exciting grapes we grow. The majority of Ngeringa Syrah and Viognier is planted in the Iluma vineyard, facing west on lean, textured soil of micaceous schist and ironstone over clay. The Iluma vineyard is also long certified biodynamic with no chemical having been applied for 26 years.

Winemaking: This wine was made by allowing the must to steep on skins for 24 hours before being pressed. Spontaneous fermentation took place in 2 barriques, where the wine was left to mature for the best part of a year. A small dose of sulfur was added at blending, prior to bottling. No added yeast, no enzymes, no fining, no filtration.

Tasting note: This Viognier is immediately expressive on the nose with lifted exotic aromatics like guava complemented with mandarin, crunchy stonefruit and rose water. The palate offers a savoury distinctively dimension. Layered with notes of biscotti and subtle cedar oak. The oak influence is elegant and well-judged, adding warmth and structure without overwhelming the fruit. The acidity moves through the creamy palate beautifully, balancing the generous palate. A whisper of fine tannin completes the frame, delivering a Viognier of both aromatic allure and textural sophistication.