Description
‘Charlie, one of the Barossa Valley’s great characters, and wife Virginia, make some of the most eagerly sought-after wines in Australia.’ James Halliday
Charlie Melton needs no introduction. Since his first vintage in 1984 and on to his first vintage of Nine Popes in 1988 and beyond he has been a leader of the Barossa Valley. Importantly, he was one of the first to recognise the value of the Barossa’s old plantings of Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro, at a time when the S.A. Government launched the infamous Vine-Pull Scheme, paying growers to remove these so unproductive vines!
And thank goodness he did! Since those early days, the range of Charles Melton Wines has expanded, with total plantings today of just over 34 hectares, the majority being old vine plantings in Krondorf, Lyndoch and Rowland Flat. Indeed, the very oldest of these (at Rowland Flat) will be celebrating their centenary in 2027.
As if this pedigree needed any endorsement, the 2014 Nine Popes was awarded the trophy for Best Australian Red at the 2017 International Wine Challenge in London. Today, Charlie has been joined by daughter Sophie as winemaker, further underwriting the future of this much admired and celebrated family business.
About this wine: Shiraz from Krondorf, Lyndoch and the Clare Valley. Generally a small amount of whole bunch (10-15%) used. A frequent but gentle degree of capmanagement via both rack and return and pumpovers. After a coolish ferment over 10-14 days.
Tasting notes from the winemaker: “Lovely deep colour, with some purple vividness. The nose is a delightful amalgam of blackcurrant/licorice with some jubey sweetness in the aromatics. A rich, dense palate with excellent weight and grip, along with mid palate roundness and sweetness. Showing the traits of a richer more traditional Barossa vintage.”
92 points, Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion “Deep crimson with inviting aromas of plum, boysenberry and black cherry fruits. Hints of baking spices, licorice, dark chocolate, violets, panforte, pan juices and earth. Plenty of depth to the dark and black berry fruits on the palate with fruitcakey spice, fine-grained tannins and a brace of bright acidity as the wine fades.”
RRP $44 Our Special Price $34.50 when you buy 6 or more of this wine.
