2004BalnavesTheBlend

Sans The Balnaves Family planted their first vines on 5 hectares of Terra Rossa soil in 1976 and today the vineyard has grown to 56 hectares comprising of 70% Cabernet, with lesser areas of Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Chardonnay. The vineyard is divided into small blocks of between one and two hectares, which take into account depth of soil, trellis design, vine clone and run direction. The blend is comprised of 51.6% Merlot and 43.6% Cabernet Sauvignon with small percentages of two other varieties.

Opaque black crimson colour with deep crimson hue. The nose delivers an impressive Cabernet sniff with aroma of cedar, blackcurrant and spice, followed by a faint hint of tea leaf. On the palate flavours of tea leaf, cedar and blackcurrant are supported by fine dry chalky tannins. There is a touch of mocha and dark chocolate on the back palate. Aftertaste of plum, blackcurrant, spice and cassis. Cellar 4-5 years (2011-2012) Alc/Vol: 14.5%