Winemaker Notes
The wide array of fruits are seen immediately upon tasting and flow elegantly across the mouth in a silky way, gradually tightening in dark, fragrant, compost and lively, dark-berry fruit tannins. The Bordeaux-like tannins are fine and plentiful, with an abundance of intertwined fragrant fruit hanging in the mouth well after the wine has been consumed. A very refreshing but classically styled wine that should age gracefully for many years.
As the wine ages, the fruit character will develop and become beautifully truffled with cigarbox flavors, while maintaining the compost and dark fragrant fruits. The fine tannins will become subtler, making the fruit character even more prominent.
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.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.