The hidden gem in the Elderton portfolio, a perennial favourite on the national wine show circuit. It was postulated that by assembling the finest components of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz which Elderton could produce, a truly wonderful wine would be created. This is
Ode to Lorraine, a rigorous selection is conducted each year to isolate the best barrels, much of which are earmarked for the estate flagships. An exceptionally well rounded claret style, born out of extensive sessions around the tasting bench.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot are harvested off old or very old vines, some were established in 1914, rooted into deep alluvial soils, harvested at optimum maturity throughout the cool of night, to a schedule determined by vineyard sampling. Following the crush, vinification is carried out in a collection of old concrete open top fermenters for approximately a week, followed by transfer to a combination of seasoned and new French oak puncheons for two years maturation. Each parcel is kept separate until the final assemblage, whereupon the Elderton team adjust the proportion of components to determine the final Ode to Lorraine.
TASTING NOTESA very rich dark purple. Elegant aromas of chocolate, berries and licorice are well wrapped in lovely toasty oak. Full bodied with velvety, ripe, refined tannins before a long rich finish. Already exhibiting amazing harmony, power and grace, Ode to Lorraine is fashioned to achieve a velvety silkiness and elegance across the whole flavour profile. A brooding wine with dark flavours framed by refined tannins, finishing long and balanced with a presence of ample, ripe fruit.