Brash Higgins 2015 ‘NDV’ Nero d’Avola-Amphora

Grafted to our Omensetter Vineyard in 2009, this fifth vintage of the drought tolerant Sicilian varietal Nero d’Avola was picked at 13.5 Baume in 2015. The transparency of the Nero d’Avola grape was preserved by using gentle, ancient techniques and naturally occurring wild yeasts. Same as the first four vintages, the grapes were destemmed then fermented and aged on skins for six months in locally made 200L bees-wax lined clay amphoras. Continuity in style makes for an interesting look at vintage personality.

“Translucent ruby in colour, with a negroni and amaro-like nose with hints of lavender, nori and stem ginger. Orange peel also present, as is usual, reminiscent of an Old Fashioned cocktail, angostura bitters and all. A pomegranate, bright cherry mid-palate balanced by a refreshing sweet and sour red currant/cranberry acidity. The wine finishes with fine grained, chain link tannins that keep it all taut and exciting.” – Brad Hickey, Vinitor, March 15, 2016.

Additional Information:
Harvest date: February 15, 2015 Hand picked
Vineyard: Omensetter Vnyd
Grower: Brash Higgins
Viticulture: Organic conversion
Soil: Red clay over limestone (Ngaltinga Formation)
Fermenter type: open amphora, wild yeast
Cap management: hand plunged two times daily
Days on skins: 180
Time in amphora: Six months
Amphora origin: Adelaide, Bennett’s Magill Pottery
Lining: McLaren Vale bees-wax
Bottling date: January 21, 2016
Filtration: clay membrane
Closure: Stelvin +
100% Nero d’Avola from Omensetter Vineyard
pH 3.44, TA 6.15 g/l, alc 14.3%

240 cases

Price: $42 per bottle, $252 per 6 bottle case