1997 Virgin Hills Dry Red

Made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot and Malbec. Virgin hills is situated North West of Melbourne in what is generally considered to be marginal grape growing country, particularly for late ripening grape varieties. Historically, the red wine from Virgin Hills has always been wine that is totally dependant upon the season. In the warm years, the wines are refined and very sophisticated, showing a superb range of ripe fruit flavours. These are the dream years. However in cooler vintages, the wines are lean and quite herbaceous. The 1997 is not a great Virgin Hills.

Deep crimson colour, with mauve and brick red edges. Aroma of blackcurrant, cedar and leather with a hint of confectionary, and finally, that dreaded vegetal note. On the palate, the vegetal, unripe fruit flavours dominate, leaving spice, blackcurrant and cedar in the background. Fine, but firmish tannins, followed by long vegetal aftertaste. Cellar 2 – 3 years.

RATING: 77/100

VALUE: X/5