Winemaker Notes
Malbec, Petit Verdot and Merlot are varieties that are well suited to grow in Margaret River. When blended, they form a divine trinity. The Malbec provides power and color, the Petit Verdot the length and texture and the Merlot, the structure. The 2008 Mangan is perfumed with rich blackberry aromas that lead into an attractive palate of mulberry and black cherry flavors. Hints of spicy oak and wonderfully soft tannins round out the lush finish. This wine benefited from being matured for nine months in high quality French oak and can be cellared up to 15 years.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
Home to some of Australia’s most elegant and long-lived red and white wines, Margaret River is situated in the farthest reaches of Western Australia. Relatively warm and dry, the region is cooled by breezes from the Indian Ocean. Margaret River takes some inspiration from Bordeaux, producing top-quality Cabernet Sauvignons and Bordeaux Blends with firm structure, mouthwatering acidity, balanced alcohol and notes of herbs and spice. For white wines, refreshing blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon as well as complex, age-worthy Chardonnays are regional specialties.