A blend of 59% Roussanne and 41% Marsanne from The Wetlands Vineyard on California Road, McLaren Vale. The Marsanne was fermented in stainless steel while most of the Roussanne saw extended time on skins, regular lees stirring and some new and one-year old French oak. There’s no shortage of complexity, that much is certain.
Strong, piquant aromas of herbal tea, cheese, honeysuckle and poached pear along with the unwanted distraction of some burnt rubber (presumably sulfide related). The palate is rich, waxy and unctuous but the structural edifice is sufficient to carry the load. An unsual finish of ginger beer and green mango just adds further character. Much to admire but it still needs refinement. I enjoyed this more than the score may suggest and look forward to tasting future vintages. 87 Average – Good
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $25
Tasted: December 2012