2022 Blackjack Cabernet Merlot

Tasting Note:

Blackjack Vineyards is situated on an easterly slope, in the old Apple and Pear growing district of the Harcourt Valley on the foothills of Mt. Alexander. Although just south of Bendigo, the climate is considerably cooler, and normally blessed with “Indian Summer” autumns – cool night and warm clear day- allowing the grapes to slowly ripen. The soil is mostly very old, and not overly fertile, granitic soils. The vineyard is hand pruned and hand-harvested. The Cabernet block was planted in 1989.

The Wine:

Fermented in traditional open fermenters, hand plunged and aged in small French oak barriques for 22 months.

Bright ruby red in colour. Cassis, red currant and spice evident on nose. Medium weight palate, Bramble and red currant flavours combined with cedary oak characters on the palate, against a supportive background of fine, integrated tannins. Balanced and lingering finish.

Try with rosemary infused and garlic slow cooked lamb shoulder.

Suggested cellaring: 4-10 years

Campbell Mattinson WineFront:92 Pts 

"The flavours run evenly and well. This red wine is in a very good drinking place right now though it should mature well too. It’s both solid and well polished, but it’s the smooth momentum of it that really seduces. Plums, redcurrants, cedarwood and cream characters get the job done, with mint and peppercorn characters lifting from there. No problem. Good stuff. Excellent drinking."

Jeni Port Halliday Wine Companion: 91 Pts.

"...with each mouthful of this staple Blackjack blend, combining quality fruit and smart winemaking. Violets, chocolate, plum, black cherry, mint and spice are dressed in fine, easy tannins, with a musky sweetness emerging on the finish. Can be enjoyed now or later."