2001 Balnaves Coonawarra Cabernet Merlot

Almost opaque black crimson colour with deep crimson hue.  Aroma of violets and cedar followed by a hint of new leather and truffle.  The palate is a touch dry, with flavours of stewed fruit emerging supported by dry, grainy tannins which run through to the aftertaste.  Stewed fruit, spice and cedar aftertaste.
Cellar 2-3 years (2008-2009)
Alc/Vol: 13.5%

First tasted, October 2004:
There is a touch of tea leaf in this wine which detracts from the nose and more particularly the palate.Opaque black crimson colour with deep crimson hue. The nose reveals a touch of tea leaf, followed by blackcurrant, cedar and liquorice. The structure of the palate is very tight with tea leaf flavours evident, followed by a hint of earth. Very dry tannins. Aftertaste of tea leaf, with hints of spice and liquorice emerging.
Cellar 3-4 years (2007-2008)
Rating: 84/100