Patritti Wines Merchant Cabernet Sauvignon

Merchant Cabernet Sauvignon McLaren Vale

Standing at 6ft 7in, Primo Carnera was the tallest ever World Heavyweight Boxing Champion when crowned in 1933. In the 1950s, Giovanni was surprised by an impromptu visit from the Ambling Alp; sparkling a lifelong friendship.

REGION

McLaren Vale enjoys a reputation for producing high quality Shiraz and Grenache along with some alternative varietals from Italy and Spain. Elevation peaks at 350 metres along the Sellicks foothills with these vineyards influenced by the cooler gully winds making them ideal for white wine and cooler climate varieties. Majority of vineyards are located on gently undulating land with strong coastal influences. The Mediterranean climate is characterised by moderate winters, warm summer and predictable winter rainfall.

VINTAGE

Spring started cool keeping vines dormant and delaying bud burst. Temperatures warmed with above average rainfall providing healthy canopies on the vines to begin summer. Very hot conditions in January and February slightly reduced crop levels in some varieties before finishing with a dry, sunny growing season. Despite a small reduction in volume, the fruit was very good quality with ripe flavours and tannin at low sugar levels.

VINIFICATION

The fruit for this Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from local McLaren Vale growers and Patritti’s own Blewitt Springs vineyard. All parcels were individually matured for 15 months in 500L oak puncheons (25% new French, 75% seasoned French and American) before careful selection, blending and bottling.

TASTING COMMENTS

Deep brick red in colour with a deep ruby hue; aromas of cassis, mulberries and mint with just a subtle hint of toasty French oak. The flavours on the palate are dominated by cassis and berries that linger. The body is medium weight and the tannins are long and supportive of the flavours with a gentle and persistent finish.