Rosé 2022 – Black Market Deal #45933

This rosé is crafted from 100% mourvèdre, a bold choice that sets it apart from the usual blend-based rosés. The lees stirring in older French oak barrels during fermentation adds remarkable complexity and textural depth rarely found in rosé wines. This technique, more commonly associated with premium white wine production, creates a sophisticated wine that bridges the gap between casual summer sippers and serious wine appreciation.

Blewitt Springs is considered the crown jewel of McLaren Vale's sub-regions, sitting at higher elevation with ancient sand over clay soils that provide excellent drainage. The cooler climate and unique terroir of this area produces fruit with exceptional concentration and natural acidity. These geological conditions, combined with the maritime influence from nearby Gulf St Vincent, create ideal growing conditions that consistently yield premium quality grapes sought after by top winemakers.

Serve this rosé well-chilled at 8-10°C to highlight its crisp, dry character and fresh herbaceous notes. The wine's complexity from lees stirring makes it perfect for more substantial pairings than typical rosés - think grilled salmon, Mediterranean dishes with herbs, or charcuterie boards. Its minerally backbone and strawberry flavours also complement Asian cuisine beautifully, particularly dishes with light spice or fresh herbs.

Lees stirring involves regularly mixing the dead yeast cells that settle after fermentation, a technique that adds creamy texture and savoury complexity to the wine. In this rosé, the process occurs in older French oak barrels, which impart subtle flavours without overwhelming the delicate fruit character. This method creates a more substantial mouthfeel and introduces subtle nutty, biscuity notes that complement the fresh strawberry and redcurrant flavours, resulting in a rosé with remarkable depth and sophistication.

While most rosés are designed for immediate consumption, this wine's complexity from lees stirring and quality fruit source suggests it will maintain its peak drinking window for 2-3 years from vintage. The natural acidity from Blewitt Springs fruit and careful winemaking will preserve the fresh herbaceous notes and vibrant strawberry flavours. Store it in a cool, dark place and consume by 2025 to experience the wine at its intended balance of freshness and complexity.