2004 Limestone Coast Cabernet Merlot

Tasting Notes

This 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot is a bright ruby red in color. Vibrant and complex aromas of spicy, red berry fruit, red currant, sweet cherry and cranberries preface notes of varietal, leafy blackcurrant fruit, cinnamon and clove spice. The same abundant, vibrant fruit is reflected on the palate, which also shows a hint of liquorice, sweet cinnamon spice, and subtle cedary French oak. The wine is beautifully structured with soft, velvety tannins, balanced acid and abundant, bright, sweet fruit on the finish.

Grape Source

The fruit for this wine was sourced from the Limestone Coast vineyards in Padthaway, Coonawarra and Wrattonbully. Australian red wines from these regions are renowned for their quality and consistency particularly parcels of fruit from vineyards grown on rich red soils overlying hard limestone rock.

Vinification

The individual vineyard parcels of fruit were harvested then fermented separately in rotary and static fermenters. Careful management of the wine in these fermenters extracted the dark color and rich flavors from the skins without any harsh sharp tannins. The wine was pressed off the skins and racked to new and seasoned French and American oak for maturation prior to blending and bottling.

Winemaker

Andrew Hales

Cellaring

Excellent drinking now but will reward careful cellaring for up to 3- 4 years.

Technical Details

Alcohol: 14.54%
pH: 3.48
Acidity: 6.28 g/L
Residual Sugar: 1.67 g/L

 

Ratings & Reviews

Wine Spectator (June 30, 2007)
"Bright and lively, this juicy red shows a dusty note that weaves through the cherry and currant flavors. Finishes with grace. Drink now through 2010." - Harvey Steiman

 

Stuff Magazine (Good Spirits: Drinking with the Stars, May 2007 )
"...makes other celeb wines seem like grape juice."

 

Midwest Wine Connection (Annual Aussie Top 15, March 2007)
"#9. A well-rounded blend with an enticing mix of sturdy berry fruits and lasting tannins." - Rob Hahn