
| Silver Medals | 1 |
| Bronze Medals | 5 |
{Tasting Notes}
Barossa Vines Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot
{THE FRUIT}
The Barossa Vines Cabernet Merlot combines 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot, from fruit grown on Grant’s own vineyards and those of respected growers in the region. An excellent growing season in 2006 allowed maximum development of varietal characters and concentration of flavours in the Barossa, and both varieties were picked at optimum ripeness.
{THE WINEMAKING}
After crushing and de-stemming, the juice was fermented in stainless steel tanks on skins for six to seven days, to bring out the maximum colour and flavour. After initial fermentation, the wine was transferred to a combination of French and American hogsheads for 15 months, to build complexity, structure and balance before bottling.
{THE COMMENTS}
The 2007 Cabernet Merlot is deep crimson colour indicating its youth. The wine shows earthy and herbaceous characters on the nose complimented by sweet ripe bramble fruit, and hints of herbal mint, subtle tobacco and spices. The palate is rich and luscious with black cherry, bramble fruit and a hint of liquorice balanced with elegant oak and soft approachable tannins, with the complex lingering finish.
This easy-drinking wine is ready to enjoy now, but will benefit from short term cellaring for added structure.
It is an excellent match with beef ragu, barbequed meats and hearty tomato dishes.
{THE REVIEWS}
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Vintage: 2007
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Vintage: 2005
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Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun, Melbourne January 2007
Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun, Melbourne January 2007
“
As the largest independent grapegrower in the Barossa Valley, Grant Burge has access to substantial amounts of fruit, which enables economies of scale and prime-quality wines at more
than reasonable prices. That's certainly the case with his Barossa Vines range and in particular the Cabernet Merlot. Rich, soft and supple with good depth of black berry flavour laced with a lick of aniseed and a dusting of chocolate. 4.5-fine drop +
”
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Vintage: 2004
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Wine Access Canada April/May 2007
Wine Access Canada April/May 2007
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The Wizards of Oz
“… these are solid wins, very dependable and I have rarely been disappointed. Strengths are Barossa reds, made with Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon…”
BEST VALUE
2004 Barossa Vines Cabernet Merlot 88 Points
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Vintage: 2002
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The Sunday Tasmanian, March 2005
The Sunday Tasmanian, March 2005
“
Plush, plump, rich and ripe. Buckets of plums freshened by hints of mint, the fruit sweetness held in check by some good savoury oak and the inclusion of a touch of the more intense and tannic petit verdot grape giving it the structure that would allow a few years’ cellaring. A pleasant mouthfeel and a good food wine.
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Winestate, March/April 2005
Winestate, March/April 2005
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Nose shows great expression of blackcurrants and mulberries; some barnyard notes. Light, acidic palate
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Tyson Stelzer February 2005 Top 500 Wines of 2005–2006
Tyson Stelzer February 2005 Top 500 Wines of 2005–2006
“
At this price it can be a challenge to find wines which reflect the
true nature of their variety. This one does it remarkably. It's a red
currant/leaf/capsicum/spice/cigar box creation, structured with
fresh bright acidity and soft, medium-grained tannins, and finishing
long. There's real value here. 89 out of 100 points. (Good wine.) Best drinking around: 2006–2008. This bottle was sealed with a cork. Love it!
”
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Vintage: 2001