1995 The McAlister

The McAlister is Gippslands foremost "Bordeaux" blend, being made from 60% Cabernet, 4% Cabernet Franc, 34% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot. The 1995 vintage reflects the potential of Gippsland as a premium Australian viticultural district. Vintage conditions experienced a dry winter and early spring, with intermittent rainfall during the growing season. The grapes all attained excellent sugar levels in stress free conditions. The high proportion of Merlot used in the 1995 vintage reflects the natural high acidity attained by the Cabernet, and hence the need to balance it off against the ripe fruit flavours of Merlot. Some maceration carbonique was used for the fermentation of the Cabernet, whilst the Merlot had a 25% stalk retention. After fermentation the wine was left on skins for 20 days, wild yeasts were used in all ferments. Deep brick red colour. The nose is multi layered displaying considerable complexity due to its multiplicity of component parts. Aromas of truffle, tea leaves and confectionery dominate the nose. The palate is refined and very different to the super ripe breeds of reds that have emerged over the last 3 - 5 years. Elegance and style in the real sense. The stalk retention to the Merlot makes its presence felt again on the palate but is supported by blackcurrant, liquorice and spice flavours. Fine grained tannin structure with very long aftertaste. Good acidity and fine grained tannin structure will ensure a cellar potential of 8 - 10 years.