Another success story from the maligned 2011 vintage in South Australia. McLaren Vale has produced its fair share. You don’t see a lot of Primitivo/Zinfandel in this country but I’ve got plenty of time for this take on it. It tastes varietal yet ever so slightly dialled down in tone.
Has the expected plum pudding, orange rind, chocolate and Xmas spices with some beautiful crystallised violet characters on the nose. A bit of vanilla custard from 33% new American oak is complimentary and works well. A few redcurrants and glacé cherries on the back-palate. Almost sappy tannin provides the shape. Lipsmacking with a rare degree of finesse. 92 Very Good
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $30
Tasted: April 2013