First Shiraz crush for the season

A little earlier than expected, the first Shiraz from the Maxwell Wines estate has been picked and pressed already...

Tuesday, 16th February 2010: Winemaker Alexia Roberts and Mark Maxwell identified a Shiraz block on the Maxwell Wines vineyard ideal for the 2010 Where's Molly Rose - beautiful colour, brilliant red berry fruit, a touch of spice, low tannin and crisp, crunchy acidity. Picking began at first light Tuesday morning, followed by crushing and cold soaking... by Wednesday afternoon the juice had picked up just enough radiant pink-red hues and flavour to be drained and pressed away from the skins. Over the next few days the juice is being cold settled, before being racked, warmed and the yeast added to begin fermentation next week. And by June this year, Lexi will have a deliciously fresh Rose for us all!