The Stray Mongrel GSZ
2020 Cellar Release
The addition of Zinfandel to the traditional blend of Grenache and Shiraz is unique to Hentley Farm…
With each variety separately crushed, fermented and matured, the Stray Mongrel displays the level of aromatic and flavour complexity you would expect from a blend of such diverse varietals. It is the perfect companion to a variety of culinary delights.
Grenache (57%), Shiraz (39%), Zinfandel (4%)
(Due to volume scarcity, a 12 bottle limit applies)
Accolades
James Halliday Wine Companion – 96 points
Blue-Gold/Top 100 – 2017 Sydney International Wine Show
Vineyard
C-Block and D-Block: Very shallow red clay loam overlying shattered limestone | North-south oriented rows | Elevated eastern aspect | Long even sunlight
Upshot: Reduced natural vine vigour | Rich ripe fruit | Supple tannins | Intense and vibrant flavour profile
Vintage
Pre-vintage
Rainfall: Wet winter | Very dry spring and early summer
Temperature: Cool early summer conditions
Upshot: Early budburst and flowering | No disease pressure | Earlier expected harvest dates
Vintage
Rainfall: Mid-January rain event | Dry otherwise
Temperature: Warm days and cool nights
Upshot: Fast late ripening conditions | High natural acid | Rich flavours and vibrant fruit
Winemaking
Fermentation: De-stemmed | Extended skin maceration of Shiraz and Grenache (50 days)
Oak: Old French – 70%, old American - 30% | Natural malolactic fermentation | 8 months maturation
Technical Analysis: Alcohol – 14.7% | pH – 3.66 | Acid – 5.9g/L | RS – <1 g/L
Noteworthy Dates
Harvested: 20th February – 6th March 2016 | Bottled: December 2015 | Re-released: September 2020
Profile
Sensorial
Profile: Strawberry | Blueberry | Cumin | Peppercorn | Lavender
Texture: Luscious yet savoury | Soft and even tannins | Medium bodied
Animal/Vehicle/Musical
Animal – Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler)
Vehicle – Toyota Hilux
Musical – Snare Drum