From the Indra block of the Lethbridge vineyard in Geelong. 100% new French barrels and 2% Viognier. You’d be hard pressed to identify the latter.
It does present as a ‘Flagship’ wine but it’s not as crass as that term might imply. Yes, there’s a fair clip of smooth, creamy oak coating the fruit but given time it merges into a profile that is harmonious and just as importantly, non-generic. Essence of plums and dark cherries with raspberry high notes. Sweet spice, chocolate, pepper, anise and chargrilled meats. Layered and complex with extremely fine, long-strand tannin drawing out the conclusion. Powerful but avoids caricature. The acid is a touch jaunty but that should sort itself out in five or so years and the wine will live a lot longer than that. 93+
Region: Geelong
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $95
Tasted: December 2013
A personal favorite of mine. These tend to age very well from what I’ve seen back to 2001. Interesting part of the world too is the Moorabool Valley.
I must visit the area again soon Dave. I suspect my rating could be considered conservative but it does appear to be the sort of wine that will really impress down the track. It showed its best on day four of tasting. I’d be very happy to have some in my cellar, of that much I am certain. It’s quite ripe but not excessively so and the balance between oak and fruit is comfortable.