Brash Higgins 2014 ‘NDV’ Nero d’Avola-Amphora

Grafted to our Omensetter Vineyard in 2009, this fourth vintage of the drought tolerant Sicilian varietal Nero d’Avola was picked at 13.5 Baume in 2014, earlier than the fulsome 2013, and back in line w the 2011 and 12 with 13.5% Alc. The transparency of the Nero d’Avola grape was preserved by using gentle, ancient techniques and naturally occurring wild yeasts. Same as the first three vintages, the grapes were destemmed then fermented and aged on skins for six months in locally made 200L bees-wax lined clay amphoras.

“Translucent ruby in colour, with a nose of mint and lavender as well as umami hints of nori and stem ginger. Orange peel also present, as is usual, akin to sticking your nose in 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, pulling one back for another look.” – Brad Hickey, Vinitor, February 15, 2015.

Additional Information:
Harvest date: February 25, 2014
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: December 21, 2014
Filtration: clay membrane
Closure: Stelvin +
100% Nero d’Avola from Omensetter Vineyard
pH 3.44, TA 6.15 g/l, alc 13.6%

210 cases

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