Kingston Estate has had some deserved success with their entry level reds but the step up to the premium/super-premium market is always challenging. This is a multi-regional blend so that extra cost can’t be justified (as it so often is) by the sense of place that comes with the wine. The winery seems to have chosen the other obvious option; get your best fruit and whack it in oak for a longer period of time…
A big slab of wood derived custard on opening. It does settle slightly with time allowing plum and concentrated dark berry fruit to come to the fore. Brandy and coffee too. It’s sweet and about as subtle as a hammer. Yes, it will probably age but I can’t say I would be bothered cellaring it. I just don’t find it interesting, appealing or particularly balanced. Average
Region: Adelaide Plains, Clare Valley, Mount Benson
Alcohol: 14%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $27.99
Tasted: November 2011