Ben Haines has certainly made his way around the traps on his way to establishing his eponymous label. Most notably he was the senior winemaker at Mitchelton and a consulting winemaker at Yering Station. Judging from these initial releases he’s chosen the right time to step out on his own.
Hand picked, 10% whole bunch and 50% new French barriques. A touch too much malty oak for mine – it took three days to achieve some real integration. Having said that, it’s been made with aging in mind. Give it enough time in the cellar and that wood will mesh with the fruit. There’s a sweet, slick layer of raspberries presiding over darker forest berries with an enticingly meaty edge. Nice, bright texture on entry and through the midpalate before dry, fine tannin starts to stack up. Plenty of structure here. The finish carries a menthol lift. Impressive wine with ample depth but needs time. Very Good
Region: Central Victoria
Alcohol: 14.4%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $58
Tasted: June 2012