2021 Hewitson 'Baby Bush' Barossa Valley Mourvedre

Dean Hewitson was a winemaker at Petaluma for 10 years as well as working vintages in France and America.  

• 94pts Ray Jordan "So, this beaut little Mourvèdre is based on fruit created by taking cuttings from the Old Garden Vineyard, planted in 1853. It is such a brilliant and vibrant example of this terrific variety. I have seen this wine evolve over many years, and I have to say it just seems to get better each year. The balance of the fruit and oak is harmonious, allowing the fragrances and seductive aromas to reveal their true beauty. A great entry wine to understand some of the appeal of Mourvèdre."

• 93pts James Halliday (Dave Brookes) "The 'baby' mourvèdre vines were established in 1998 from cuttings off the epic 1853-planted Old Garden vineyard. Lots of colour and lots of fruit depth for babies! Rich dark plum, blueberry and black cherry fruits with hints of turned earth, light bramble tones, graphite, dark spice, roasting meats and charcuterie. There is a wee whiff of choc-mint way off in the distance, too, with an impressive fruit density, tight granite dust tannins and bright acid drive finishing pure and savoury."

• 92pts Jeni Port "These “babies” certainly bring a lot of flavour to the glass. Twenty four-years-old in 2021, they were planted as cuttings from the best vines off the 1853 Old Garden bush vines, so their provenance is assured. Approachable, fruit-fuelled and spice-ladden, Baby Bush is rich in loganberry, bramble and plum fruits matched nicely with the scent and herbal flavour of fennel, oregano and sage. But there is more. A gentle earthy, olive savouriness on the palate brings a layer of added interest. Ripe, cherry pip tannins are discreet and contribute to the overall succulence and deliciousness of this young red."