Wines like this make you wonder once more why Australian Merlot dominant blends aren’t given proper respect when it’s due. And that’s not to mention the lack of interest in Australian Franc. I’ll mark most of it down to ignorance and fashion. 55% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Cabernet Franc with each grape playing a clear role.
Brown leaf, raspberry, chocolate, black olives and pepper. Lively with an impressive line of acid and tannins which make a significant contribution yet aren’t stern. Delicious, vibrant drinking. 92
Region: Pemberton
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Cork
Price: $44
Tasted: October 2013
Hi Jeremy- do you think the reason why Aussie Merlot dominant blends have not been as popular (relatively speaking) is because we have been guilty of making them too ripe and sweet- sometimes with overt sweet and sour characteristics and lacking balance? Sounds like Picardy have been able to achieve balance and flavour at lower alcohol due to good practice. If they’re getting flavours of raspberry, chocolate and black olive at 13.5% this sounds pretty darn good to me! A “must have” wine me thinks…
I reckon that’s a pretty bloody big part of the reason Matt. But with the likes of TarraWarra, Blue Poles and Picardy among others turning out some terrific examples I think it’s time to stop mocking the grape and the blends made in Australia en masse. I also suspect the diminishing regard for Bordeaux among critics and sommeliers is also playing a role…and the ridiculous prices that are charged aren’t helping there either.
Good point Jeremy. I’ve recently tasted some wines from TarraWarra and Blue Poles and agree they are making some bloody good examples. We should all probably stop mocking and start drinking Australia…
The 2009 of this is drinking brilliantly. One of my favourite Pemberton wines