CHURCH ROAD TOM CAB SAV MERLOT 2019

Very dark, impenetrable black-red colour. The nose is initially soft and gentle in expression with well-integrated, finely concentrated aromas of dark-red and black berried fruits harmoniously entwines and lifted frith red fruit fragrances. With aeration, the depth of black fruits and suggestions of cassis unfold. On palate the wine possesses beautiful richness and succulence with mouthfilling flavours showing a layering of blackberries and blackcurrants and notes of cassis and dark herbs. The mouthfeel speaks of a growing presence, depth and texture as the extraction builds and accumulates in textural breadth and density. Black fruits become more prevalent, and sweet, cedary oak elements emerge. The acidity and nervosity is totally absorbed, and the wine leads to a sweet, succulent finish with fine grip. This is an integrated Cabernet/Merlot blend that builds to show its structure, black fruits and oak. It will continue to do this another 10-15 years. 67% Cabernet Sauvignon from the ‘Redstone’ Bridge Pa Triangle vineyard and 33% Merlot from the ‘Gimblett’ vineyard in the Gimblett Gravels, fermented to 14.5% alc., the Merlot on skins 26 days and Cabernet Sauvignon for 30 days, the wine aged 22 months in 92% new French oak barriques 

Raymond Chan