Blend Malbec, ML, PV. From Margaret River, Western Australia. Approx. equal blend of Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot. US$60 from an auction. Tasted in Bruce Cass Wine Lab Southern Hemisphere class at Ft. Mason.
Quality-oriented estate on the Indian Ocean where temperatures are remarkably consistent, and moderate, from day to night. Result is noteworthy depth of flavor and juiciness in the mid-palate. Very dark, blue-black color. Effusive nose, with some blueberry, but enormous amount of heather-like, licorice intensity. Whether you enjoy it or not, and I did, there is no argument over this wine’s powerful expression. Perhaps a bit broad in the mouth, but not so as to be a distraction ~ more a relief because the nose implied there could be a serious beat-down hiding in the glass. Serve with something blackened from Louisiana.
Internationally recognized for his expertise on small-volume California wine producers, Bruce has earned accolades for his work as a wine educator, editor, freelance wine writer and wine judge. He has traveled extensively doing winery research in Europe, the Pacific Northwest, New Zealand, Chile and Argentina.
