1998 Crawford River Cabernet Merlot

A blend of 60% Cabernet and 40% Merlot & Cabernet franc. Condah is in far Western Victoria, near Hamilton, and rather marginal country for Cabernet Sauvignon. At the best of times it is difficult to avoid vegetal aroma and flavour. Medium body with crimson brick red colour. Aroma of stewed fruits, leather, truffle and ending with that menacing leafy, vegetal end note.The palate emphasises the greenness which appears on the nose and in spite of valiant rescue attempts (from the stewed fruit and spice flavours) the vegetal flavours persist right into the end, leaving the soft tannins to fend for themselves. Cellar 1-2 years.

RATING: 74/100

VALUE: XX/5

RE-TASTED 10/2/2000
Made from a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Medium weight to brick red colour. Earthy leather nose, with a hint of violets, followed by blackcurrant, spice end notes. The palate is short, with stalky green vegetal flavours. Fine, firm tannins, with green vegetal aftertaste. Pass.

RATING: 71/100

VALUE: X/5