In the winter of 2009 McLaren Vale experienced normal rainfalls, from a historical perspective, but due to the on going draught in '07, '08 and start of '09 most people would say that the heavens opened up. The ongoing trend of early budburst, flowering and veraison continued for the start of the 2010 vintage but it was the mild rains during December and January followed by mild temperatures that allowed flavours to develop slowly while still maintaining high levels of natural acidity. This all meant that McLaren Vale experienced the best vintage in a long time. Some have even gone on to say that it is the best vintage since the season of 1996 or 1991.
Big, big, big is the first thing that comes to mind with this hulk of a wine. The palate explodes with sweet notes of blueberry pie, cassis and cherry jam mixed with bourbon and spice. While the creamy texture and velvety mouthfeel are inviting, the level of sweetness and heat from the alcohol, were a little too high for top marks. These two components combined with masses of sweet oak suggested to me that this wine would score brilliantly at a larger tasting.
Alcohol: 15.5%
Price: $90
Rated: 86
Drink: Now as he will make another one next year.
No comments:
Post a Comment