Tom Kline
The cépage is 67% Grenache, 17% Shiraz and 16% Mourvèdre, with each variety handled separately and with its own unique maceration. However, the common thread is a very gentle pump-over regime – often just wetting the cap – for a minimum of 14 days. This delicate approach plays out nicely in the finished wine. A very elegant nose to start. Dark cherry, pepper spice, raspberry and plum sit restrained in the glass as some emergent notes of game meat, crushed violet and dried herbs take shape in the background. Some time in the glass really allows the savoury elements to shine around the fruit. The palate is cool and restrained with nice precision to the fruit notes, which mirror the nose – plum, dark cherry – and some delicate pepper, musk, violet and dried-herb notes beneath. The tannins are silty and fine, providing a delicate-but-ample frame on which good length carries. I like the finesse and digestibility here – it’s McLaren Vale GSM in a well-placed modern style, exhibiting all the hallmarks of the blend and place but in a more lithesome aesthetic. Good value on show here at $35 retail. Points: 93/100
