The recipe for this particular cuvée changes from vintage to vintage – sometimes it majors on Syrah, sometimes Mourvedre (but always with some Grenache in the mix). Winemaker Jonathan Hesford says that although the make-up may change, the idea remains the same – to produce a consistent style, from a blend of wines that have not seen any time in barrel. This inky-dark, semi-opaque wine has a nose of uber-ripe bramble and cassis, with notes of damp earth, polished leather, tobacco and freshly-baked bread. The palate offers a rasp of rich, ripe but gently rustic tannins, which cannot conceal a core of luscious black and red fruit flavours, with ample acidity providing a refreshing counterpoint, making for a youthful, vibrant mouthful of loveliness. A lot of bang for your buck, and it also has the potential to age nicely for a few years.
Winery notes (2018 Vintage)
"Named after a Bruce Springsteen song "Empty Sky" which, for us expressed most clearly the memories of September 11th. This unoaked red is made from Syrah, Grenache. It is the most approachable of all our red wines with crunchy forest fruits and an earthy, smoky character from the Aspres terroir. Drinkable upon release for up to 3 years."