2019 Mitolo, Serpico McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon, 6x750ml
Availability: In stock
Case size: 6 / Bottle size: 750ml
Critics Score: 94
Publication: Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
Drinking Dates: 2021-2030
2019 Mitolo, Serpico McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon
The fruit was hand picked quite early (around 13° Baume) and placed onto 10 kilogram drying crates before being left to dry in temperature and humidity controlled sheds for approximately six weeks. This follows the traditional Amarone techniques, resulting in a 30% loss in bunch weight. After drying, the wine was fermented on skins for two weeks and then left for a further three weeks before pressing. This extended time on skins helped to soften the wine as the small, aggressive tannins were bound up in the process leaving only larger, silky tannins. The wine was then aged for 10 months in new oak barrels (80% French, 20% American) before being blended and bottled.
Fruit for the Serpico wine comes from the Lopresti vineyard, and more specifically the Chinese Block, which is located at the southern end of McLaren Vale close to the coastal town of Port Willunga. The Cabernet Sauvignon in this vineyard is planted on black Biscay clay which along with the ideal Mediterranean climate produces wines of concentrated varietal character.
Mitolo is a family owned winery established in 1999 by Frank Mitolo. Mitolo's vision is to create individual, handcrafted premium wines built on passion and an uncompromising commitment to quality. Winemaker Ben Glaetzer became a partner in the business in 2001. The fusion of Frank's intimate knowledge of the land and business acumen with Ben's winemaking talent has led to the creation of one of Australia's most exciting wineries.