Bannockburn 1314 Rosé 2024

Now in its third year, the 1314 Rosé is already a mainstay of Bannockburn’s range; Matt Holmes is putting the estate’s old-vine Cabernet and Merlot vines to good use. This year, Cabernet makes up 40% of the blend, with the balance comprising equal parts Merlot, Shiraz and Riesling. In the warm, dry conditions of 2024, Bannockburn’s well-established, low-yielding Riesling vines contribute refreshing drive to the full, fleshy berry-fruit profile.

All the fruit hails from the Winery Block, with vines planted in 1981, 1990 and 1996. The soils are clay over limestone, and the vineyard is farmed organically. The Cabernet component underwent carbonic maceration to soften up the skins before being gently pressed to tank for fermentation. The other varieties were simply pressed as bunches to tank for fermentation. Maturation was short―about three months―and took place in a combination of tanks and old barrels. It's juicy, full and fleshy, bursting with sweet summer berries and cassis underpinned by a distinctive savoury tone and a lick of wet stone on the fresh finish. With plenty of weight and flavour, this will pair well with a variety of dishes, including anything with spice.