CARLEI ESTATE
Single Block Vineyards expressing a single variety in a specific region or location, expressing a true 'sense of place' and terroir.
Wines in the Carlei Estate Portfolio are made only in exceptional years, using only the best barrels of fruit from the vineyard.
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WINES AVAILABLE IN THE CARLEI ESTATE RANGE:
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Chardonnay, Yarra Valley
Pinot Noir, Cardinia Ranges
NORD Shiraz, Heathcote
SUD Shiraz, Heathcote
Nebbiolo, Central Victoria
Mouvedre, Central Victoria
Rose, Heathcote
Riesling, Tamar Valley
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THE NORD AND SUD PROJECT
Carlei Estate has focused on the development of two wines (first vintage 2004) of the same variety (Shiraz) and clone grown in two different locations in the Heathcote region.
One vineyard is in the north Heathcote (NORD), the other in the south Heathcote (SUD).
The NORD is grown in Cambrian soils, while the SUD is grown in decomposed Granite.
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The two wines show distinct differences, regardless of being the same grape and clone.
We found that the NORD and SUD showed individual characteristics, respective to their terroirs - based on their soil differences and climates.
DEFINING TERROIR
Terroir can be defined as the summation of the four elements;
earth (geology and soil)
fire (sun producing light and temperature)
air (wind)
water (rainfall and its distribution)
and how these elements effects the growth pattern of a vine. the combination of four elements interplay in a unique way in the vine which can determine the flavor characteristics that can be recognized in the glass of wine; telling the story where the grapes were grown, giving the wine a true 'sense of place'. To be a true 'terroirist', vines need to be grown naturally.
