STELLA

Carefully bunch-sorted in the vineyard and again in the cellar, the fruit made its way into two small cuves for co-fermentation. 37% of the mix comprised whole clusters, selected from a particularly stressed parcel of vines bearing perfectly lignified stems, while the remaining 63% was whole berry— about 15% still a vibrant, youthful red; the rest, a deep, classic Syrah blue. Following a 7-day cold soak, fermentation began naturally. The grapes remained in contact with their skins and stems for a total of 21 days, nurtured gently through the process. As the cap began to fall and daily punchdowns became unnecessary, the wine was pressed and transferred to 225L French oak barriques—54% of them new, the rest between five and six years old.

2022 was marked by contrasts and extremes—a vintage that kept us on our toes from budbreak to bottling. A late start in spring due to unusually cold, wet soils gave way to vigorous growth in October, followed by intense rains, hailstorms, and wind that tested both vines and viticultural strategy. As summer arrived, we faced alternating heatwaves and unseasonal cold snaps, with erratic conditions persisting through veraison. These dynamic elements required vigilance and adaptability in the vineyard, from canopy management to weed control. 2022 was challenging, but challenges are what make a vintage unique and overcoming them is what makes a vintage meaningful. The 2022 STELLA was crafted with unwavering intent: to honour and preserve the identity of the site that bore its fruit. Nestled on the lowerlying slopes, a small parcel where Syrah and Viognier grow intertwined provided the source. Bunches were hand-picked with precision—Viognier golden and slightly raisined from extended hang-time, exuding a honeyed richness, and Syrah showing its signature spice.

STELLA was left undisturbed—never racked—and matured gracefully on its lees for 18 months.