Winemaker Notes
'Garagist' is a French term used to describe producers in Bordeaux that make wine in their garage outside of the strict 'Appellation Controlee' system. d'Arenberg wines are all made in a small-batch processing, very hands-on way (or feet, as the reds are all foot-trod) as the garagists' do. Our reds are all made in the old galvanised garage/shed/winery, hence 'Galvo'.
Aromas of cassis and blueberry are evident without being dominant on the nose. This allows the leafy and dried herb earthiness to show up adding complexity. The palate is savory, spicy and elegant. It's deep and dark with rhubarb adding to the fruit spectrum and sitting alongside a subtle floral nuance and savory elements of dark chocolate and dried herbs. There is no explosion of fruit, but rather an elegant and gradual building of complexity with persistent mineral, chalky tannins providing a balanced structure.
Cabernet Sauvignon (64%), Merlot (16%), Cabernet Franc (10%), Petit Verdot (10%)
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon (the balance is Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc), this is full bodied, lush and richly textured. Cassis, blackberry, vanilla and tobacco leaf notes give this a convincingly Bordeaux-styled profile, although much riper and plusher. Drink now–2023.
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.