James Halliday Wine Companion 2018

95 / 100

“A 90/10% blend from part of the oldest palntings (’76), matured for 15 months in French oak. Bright, crimson-purple; fruit flavours and tannin structure take their respective claims from the outset, neither admitting defeat. Blackcurrant, mulberry and black olive flavours are in the red corner, ripe tannins from fruit and oak in the blue corner. This isn’t a once-only prize fight; it will continue for many years. Drink to 2035”

Wine Details

• Region Coonawarra, South Australia
• Vintage 2015
• Type Red Wine
• Variety Cabernet Merlot
• Volume 750ml
• Alcohol Volume 14%
• PH

  3.49

• Acidity

  5.82 G/L

• Closure ScrewCap
• Background

  The Balnaves Coonawarra Vineyard was established in 1975, and is situated at the southern end of the Coonawarra Terra Rossa strip. The family, which has been associated with the district since 1855, remains fully committed to a high level of ‘hands-on” involvement.

• Winemaking

  Vintage 2015 was mild with slow ripening conditions, due to cool night-time temperatures with fruit harvested early April. Cabernet Sauvignon from our Old Paulownia Cab, 1976 Original plantings, Dead Morris and Avery vineyards (90%) was blended with Rise Merlot (10%), followed by 15 months in tight-grain French oak.

• Tasting Notes

  Deep rich red in colour, the nose is fine with aromas of pure cassis, violets and seaweed, combined with fine mocha-coffee French oak. The palate is rich with ripe cassis fruit and a soft mature tannin finish. This wine will reward careful cellaring and we recommend decanting before drinking.

• Peak Drinking / Cellaring Potential

  This wine will reward careful cellaring and we recommend decanting before drinking.