2001 Limestone Coast Cabernet Merlot

Tasting Notes

A deep, red color with crimson hues, its bouquet reveals rich, dark berry fruit and plum aromas, complexed by smoky, spicy oak. These flavors are also evident on the rich palate with tight fruit flavors persisting on the finish. These wonderful cabernet fruit flavors are coupled with the softness of merlot.

Grape Source

Sourced from the Limestone Coast region of South Australia with the majority coming from the Wrattonbully and Coonawarra regions. The region is famous for outcrops of red soil that sit above a hard layer of coastal limestone.

Vinification

Separate parcels of fruit were fermented in American oak barriques, small four-ton fermenters and 20-ton Roto fermenters. The wine was matured in new and seasoned French and American oak hogsheads.

Technical Details

Bottling Date: May 2002
pH: 3.4
Acidity: 7.1 g/L
Alcohol: 13.3%
Residual Sugar: 1.9 g/L
Harvest Date: March-April 2001

 

Ratings & Reviews

Wine Spectator (September 30, 2003)
"Firm in texture, generous with its peppery blackberry and lime flavors, with a minty note as the flavors linger." - Harvey Steiman

 

The Star Ledger (Celebs' Wines Uncork Pleasant Surprises, November 12, 2003)
"Even better is this Cabernet-Merlot blend." - T.J. Foderaro

 

The Capital (December 24, 2003)
"One of the best. This blend has bright berry flavors with a soft texture and light body." - Tom Marquardt & Patrick Darr

 

Waterbury Republican-American (October 21, 2003)
"Recommended. Sleek, polished." - Elin McCoy & John Frederick Walker

 

Toronto Life (December 2004)
"Good. ...nose of blackberry, eucalyptus, green tea and integrated oak. Smoke. Evolving palate with some greenness, spice and blueberry tea."

 

Latino Leaders (January 15, 2004)
"Mouthwatering medium bodied wine with a deep cherry red and plum bouquet. At the palate is shows spice, toasted-smoky notes, and even a hint of mint jam. A nice long finish."

 

Colorado Wine News (October-December 2004)
"...tart cranberry, sweet cherry, currant, and smoke. All the fruit continues onto the palate as lively, almost sweet flavors plus cooked rhubarb, artificial cherry candy, and a rusty, metallic note plus light tannin. Everything carries through the medium-broad, medium-long finish."

 

The Leader (December 15, 2004)
"...plum and dark fruit flavors. Medium body and smooth. Some spice and maybe a little oak."