The Optimist

2003 Abercorn Cabernet Merlot $18.95


A drought year, the 2003 vintage produced fully ripe fruit with in tense flavours. Fruit for this wine came from the Abercorn vineyard and from several neighbouring Mudgee vineyards. Low yields were across all of these vineyards (below 7 tonnes per hectare).

A dry winter and spring led to ideal growing conditions for both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vines. After a warm summer and autumn the grapes were harvested fully ripe at 13 – 13.5 be but low acid levels.

The wine was stored in one, two and three year old French and American barrels for 12 months. The wine was intentionally made smooth with all rough edges removed in the winery. This was represented in the final blend with the Cabernet (80%) providing excellent fruit and tannin structure while the Merlot component (15%) brings softness and roundness to the final wine. A little Shiraz (5%) also helps lift the wine.

It was bottled with screwcap closures to avoid cork taint and ensure the wine is fully fresh when opened. A medium-full bodied red wine, the 2003 Cabernet Merlot is a friendly style. It is fresh, fruity and highly appealing. The nose is intense jammy fruit characters without appearing ‘overripe’. The palate has good weight and has been made to be soft and flavoursome. Great with pizza, pasta and curry dishes, it will improve for a further 3-5 years.

AWARDS: 86/100, James Halliday 2005 Wine Companion

Review:
I tried the 2004 Cab Merlot and it was subperb. Subperb for me is a red that delivers a full bouquet..
Rating: 5 of 5 Stars!
by Mark Lockyer

Abercorn Wine
Cassilis Road,
Mudgee NSW 2850

Ph: 02 6373 3106
Fax: 02 6373 3108
Freecall: 1800 000 959

Email: sales@abercornwine.com.au

Abercorn Wine