"This Traditional Method Sparkling Shiraz brings with it, cherry and raspberry, dusted with clove and black pepper. Powdered cocoa, burnt orange and cedar round out the equation with lovely soft tannin. Match with glazed ham, roast lamb and dark chocolate. It's also an excellent match for chinese duck or BBQ ribs."
Brothers Brian and Kevyn Joy planted Pyren Vineyard in 1999, surrounded by state forest and farmland. Basking in the sunshine of the glorious Warrenmang valley in the Victorian Pyrenees the vineyard is now under the expert care of Brian’s son, winemaker Leighton Joy alongside viticulturist Graeme Miles. The vines, approaching 25 years in the ground, are producing better fruit than ever before, through a combination of maturity and evolving best practise in the vineyard and winery. The use of organic farming methods (though uncertified) and minimal intervention winemaking techniques underscores their dedication to preserving the natural integrity of the wines. The surrounding mountains play their part and Pyren is planted in an east-west orientation, providing invaluable shade to both fruit and the ground in the warmest part of the day. In winemaking terms, there is a staunch commitment to spontaneous, wild yeast fermentation. Subsequently, pressed wines are encouraged to talk, to generate character, and to evolve in the cellar.
According to Leighton “The intention is to meld the expression of high-quality fruit with integrity and artistic freedom, and the endeavour to fine tune the best style for the fruit is a continuous one”. This philosophy has led to the creation of several unique wine ranges The Earthscape range seeks to express single grape varieties grown on quartz soils, in terroir-driven ways, while their “Little Ra Ra” wines have allowed Leighton to develop a more playful expressions of the Pyrenees. They also produce a Reserve, of their best fruit, traditionally crafted, and designed for aging. All in all Pyren are an ideal blend of innovative spirit and traditional reverence.
The Earthscape label is named according to the lie of the land on which Pyren is planted, from the soil structure in its quartz laden mass, to the rolling valleys, and skyward facing peaks. Harvested from the most elevated block at Pyren, handpicked then fermented in open vessels with a high proportion of whole berry fruit. Made with the traditional method. 30% new French & Hungarian oak for 4 months then 10 months in bottle post triage prior to disgorgement
