2023 Occitan Red Blend

Last seen in 2018 the 2023 sees a revival of this style with additional refinement and new technique. Blended from McLaren Vale Shiraz, Grenache and Carignan with a little Barossa Cinsault for a classic southern French expression. A blend of techniques here. Whole bunches of Grenache fermented in direct pressed Syrah juice, and vice versa. Carbonic Carignan and Cinsault seasoning.
Not as lightly coloured as I expected, Syrah and Carignan adding darker tones. Dark red in the glass but not too deep. No one variety dominating here and strong secondary influences. Dark berry fruits and plums overlain with dried flowers, dried herbs and fragrant spice and rounded by some funky barrel tones. On first appearance the palate is a classically shaped medium red with balance of fruit and savoury. Gentle ripe red and dark fruits play with spice and chalky tannins. Just as the dark chocolate finish builds a faint floral burst announces a more playful spirit. A lot happening in this complex blend.