Always consistent this. A blend of 51% Cabernet, 37% Shiraz, 12% Merlot that spends 18 months in oak, with 70% French and the rest American. Did I ever tell you that I once came second in a blending contest at Wirra Wirra trying to make Church Block? Didn’t put in enough Merlot…
’14 was a tricky vintage for Vale Cab and this looks a bit spiky and lumpy. Red and black fruit on the nose with a dash of vanilla, the slightly rough-and-ready palate is just a bit aggressive and acid seems a bit high this year. Still, so much to chew on that you can’t help but admire this value red. Best drinking: 2018-2026. 16.8/20, 89/100. 14.5%, $20. Would I buy it? Not quite, but I’d recommend.
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3 Comments
Nice alternative web display. I like it a lot .
I looked at your end comment and the fact you wouldn’t buy it sent out signals to me as an avoid wine. But re-reading your comments gave me an understanding that although this wine didn’t quite do it for you, it may do it for others.
It is comments like that that make your opinions stand out a little bit more. Cheers.
Thanks Chris,
There are loads of wines that fit into that category, so it’s an important distinction. While I might not buy it, plenty of others would.