2004 Cabernet Shiraz Merlot

VINTAGE DESCRIPTION
The 2004 vintage was one of the latest in Coonawarra.  Cool and dry conditions during January delayed ripening which saw harvesting occur well into May for the red varieties

WINEMAKING NOTES
The three red varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot were all harvested and fermented separately in roto-fermenters to retain and enhance fruit varietal flavours.  During post fermentation the various wine batches were carefully blended to give a distinct fruit driven style of wine that reflects the Coonawarra region providing generous varietal fruit flavours

WINE COLOUR
Medium crimson red colour

WINE BOUQUET
A fresh intense plum fruit style with a hint of spice and floral aromas

WINE PALATE
This award winning young wine displays excellent fruit characters with fresh and intense blackberry and plum aromas and a hint of spice. The palate is well balanced with mulberry and cherry flavours finishing with fine persistent tannins. An appealing wine to drink now

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHING
Well suited to Venison and duck dishes with juniper berries

CELLARING NOTES
A drink now style with appealing fresh fruit flavours that will certainly cellar well

CRITICS NOTES
Top 40 Best Buys under $15, Winestate Magazine Nov/Dec 2005

AWARDS TO DATE
2005 Melbourne Wine Show ~ Silver medal
2005 Hobart Wine Show ~ Bronze medal