Cradle of Hills are a producer to watch in McLaren Vale but I must admit I’m not entirely enamoured with this release from the excellent 2010 vintage. It’s a touch too thick and slightly soupy with the alcohol also quite noticeable. The 25% Mourvèdre helps but ultimately I think it lacks the vitality and shape that I’ve seen in the top efforts from that year. Still, at $25…
Black at heart with dynamics in the form of Morello cherries and blueberry. Ironstone, bourbon, coffee and earth. Pepper, dark chocolate and Asian spice. It’s a creamy wine, smooth with ripe ferrous tannin and a clip of French vanilla oak. If you’re after a hit of dense flavour with significant complexity this fits the bill. 89 Good
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $25
Tasted: May 2013