Freeman Rondinella and Corvina 'Secco' Cellar Release 2007

Produced by Freeman Vineyards in the elevated Hilltops region of New South Wales, Secco Cellar Release 2007 is a rare and mature expression of the winery's flagship Italian-inspired red blend. Crafted from Australia's only commercial plantings of Corvina and Rondinella, this limited cellar release showcases the remarkable ageing potential of a wine inspired by the great Amarone and Ripasso wines of Italy's Veneto region.

Founded by Dr Brian Freeman, former Head of Wine Science at Charles Sturt University, the winery has pioneered these unique Italian varieties in Australia, creating wines that combine savoury complexity, structure and longevity.

Winemaking

The philosophy behind Secco is to produce a wine reminiscent of traditional Amarone and Ripasso, balancing richness and savoury complexity with vibrant fruit expression.

A portion of the Corvina and Rondinella grapes was slowly dried for up to ten days before fermentation, concentrating flavour, colour and tannin through a traditional appassimento-influenced process. The dried fruit was then combined with freshly harvested grapes during fermentation to create additional depth and texture.

The wine was matured in seasoned oak barrels for two years, allowing graceful development without dominating oak influence, before extended bottle ageing in the winery cellar. This lengthy maturation has transformed the wine into a beautifully integrated and complex mature red.

Tasting Notes

After nearly two decades of ageing, Secco Cellar Release 2007 displays a deep garnet hue with brick-red edges. The bouquet reveals evolved aromas of dried cherry, fig, leather, spice, tobacco leaf, forest floor and cocoa, layered with savoury umami complexity. The palate is silky and refined, with mature dark fruit, earthy nuances and integrated tannins delivering exceptional length and balance. Richly textured yet remarkably elegant, this is a wine that beautifully demonstrates the rewards of patience.

Food Pairing

Perfect with:

Slow-braised beef cheeks
Venison and game dishes
Osso buco
Truffle-infused pasta
Mature hard cheeses
Chargrilled ribeye
Slow-cooked lamb