Maverick has a spectacular collection of very old-vine vineyards through these appellations and is farmed biodynamically to ensure optimum fruit character.
Ron and Chris were on-hand to guide us through the philosophy and objectives of this property. A 'bench-marking' tasting exercise was also held to establish industry feedback (on one hand) and to better illustrate Chris's wine-making style on the other.
This is Ron. He owns the joint. Ron is very passionate about old vines. Watch Ron's hands.
How I love juicy, cinnamon-nutmeg-gy, floral, spicy Greenock shiraz
This is an old 'centurion' bush-vine grenache.
Ron guides us through the grapes-to-barrel process at Maverick. All small-lot fermentations with minimum interference i.e innoculations, etc. It's very apparent that Maverick is a boutique enterprise.
Check out this copper vortexing machine from 'Castello di Rampola'. It's used for energising the water for the bidynamic preperations used on the vineyards. Controversy! a machine!
Pewsey Vale in the Eden Valley. Shiraz.
Very shallow soils with a granite substrate. These vineyards are nearly ready for DEMETA accreditation.
A wonderful contouring vineyard of chardonnay at the 'Trial Hill' estate.
The Monkey Nut tree on the highest point of the highest hill in Eden. Chardonnay in the foreground.
Old Vine Riesling. An extraordinary taste contrast to younger vines. Younger vines are more sour and one dimensional, whilst the old vine fruit is muscat-y sweet with softer, talc tannins and less savage acidity.
Contouring riesling vineyard at 'Trial Hill'
The Barossa Flat in the background.
Chris explains the approach to winemaking. I think 'minimal-intervention' and 'elegant' would be fair calls.
Crispian has a secret. It requires fierce concentration.Thank you 'Maverick' and Decant Fine Wines! Some of the most memorable vineyards I've seen. This is truly great 'terroir' and has changed how I look at Eden. Can't wait to get back up there.
