A difficult wine to rate at this stage of its life. It’s sullen and uncommunicative. Vinous adolescence. You can see the promise but it’s going to take some time. This vintage sees fruit taken from the early ripening Inkwell Vineyard and the Trembath Vineyard (about which I have no real knowledge).
Over three days it threw up notes of black and blue fruits, tar and licorice root, chocolate and earth. A hint of brown leaf as well. The somewhat creamy oak is well played, providing a pleasing chassis without weighing down or obstructing the spicy, savoury flow of the wine. Nineteen months in French hogsheads, 23% new for those interested. Tannins are ripe, layered and long. Just needs time I suspect. As Paul McCartney sang, “Let it be”. 93+
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $75
Tasted: September 2013