Description

The first five hectare were planted in 1976 on Coonawarras famous Terra Rossa soils, the family owned Balnaves estate is now over 50 hectare. The vineyard is devoted to over 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, with parcels of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Shiraz, Petit Verdot and Chardonnay. The partnership with winemaker Pete Bissell has been remarkably successful with a string for accolades and more importantly happy customers to vouch for it.

Dense, dark and concentrated. Cassis, toasty oak, violets, plums, hints of leather, game, pepper, terracotta and much more. The palate is a fine balance of rich and plush fruits, savoury oak and earth and bristling tannins. There is great length of flavour and a great need for 10-15 years in the cellar.

Cabernet Sauvignon – The main grape of Bordeaux’s left bank. Cabernet is late ripening and full of acid and tannin. The great wines are structured but finessed with beautiful cassis, violets and it also transmits the flavours of the soil it is grown in really well. Cabernet isn’t a drink now variety, it really needs 10 or more years to show its best. But when you get there, WOW! Often blended with Merlot, Cabernet Franc or in Australia Shiraz to fill out its mid-palate referred to as the ‘Cabernet doughnut’.