1996 Elderton Barossa CSM

Initialising the name of the grape varieties is becoming a bit trendy, it all started with Rosemounts GSM, (Grenache Syrah Mouvedre) and now Elderton has jumped on the band wagon. CSM is Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. This is a beautiful bottle of Barossa opulence made from a blend of 60% Cabernet, 30% Shiraz, 10% Merlot and matured in French and American oak for 18-24 months.Deep crimson brick red colour. Lifted nose of mulberry and blackberry followed by plum, spice and cedar notes and finally a whiff of violets at the very end, and just when you think that's all the Merlot decides to make a last minute earthy contribution to the nose. Full bodied voluptuous fruit flavours with mouthfilling plum, liquorice, blackcurrant and cedar flavours. Fine grained tannins, excellent balance with a slightly firm finish and just a touch of 'tarriness' emerging, however, it does not detract from the totality of the wine. Long ripe, blackcurrant, plum, chocolate and liquorice aftertaste. Cellar 5-8 years.