Red Blends

The harmonious marriage of these two iconic grape varieties, from two iconic regions of New South Wales.

Here's how this vintage of our Cabernet Shiraz blends presents:

Colour: Deep ruby red with crimson highlights, reflecting the wine's concentration and youthfulness.

Aromas: The wine does offer an enticing and complex aromatic profile. Ripe blackberries and dark cherries dominate, courtesy of the Shiraz, while Cabernet Sauvignon does contribute hints of cassis and subtle green bell pepper notes. The interplay of the two varieties does create an aromatic tapestry that includes nuances of tobacco, dried herbs, and possibly a touch of mint.

Palate: On the palate, the blend might present a medium-full body with a rich and balanced expression. The dark fruit flavours from the nose does transition smoothly to the palate, supported by well-integrated tannins. The Hunter Valley's signature acidity does provide a lively backbone, enhancing the wine's structure.

Finish: The finish is lengthy and satisfying, with the wine's dark fruit flavours and oak nuances lingering on the palate.

Food Pairing: The wine's balanced structure and blend of fruitiness and complexity make it versatile for pairing. Consider matching it with hearty dishes like grilled steak, roasted lamb, or rich stews. The blend's tannins and acidity does also complement dishes featuring mushrooms or aged cheeses.

Ageability: Depending on the winemaking decisions and the vintage's characteristics, this blend does have potential for modest aging, allowing its flavours to evolve and integrate over time.

Overall Impression: The 2021 Heavy Metal blend from our Sweetwater Vineyard, offers a captivating and layered wine experience. Its interplay of dark fruit, structure, and the influence of terroir does create a wine that appeals to those seeking a well-rounded red blend that reflects both the grape varieties and the unique qualities of the Hunter Valley's terroir.

A captivating and harmonious fusion of two iconic grape varieties, combined with the influence of both the specific vineyard site and the winemaker's expertise.

In appearance, the wine would likely showcase a deep, rich colour that hints at the concentration and potential complexity within. The 2021 vintage, marked by its own climatic conditions, would have shaped the wine's hue and overall character.

On the nose, this blend offers a symphony of aromas that balance the characteristics of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The Shiraz component contributes intense dark fruit notes, possibly blackberries and plums, along with hints of pepper and spice. The Cabernet Sauvignon, on the other hand, brings to the blend cassis, dark cherry, and possibly even subtle herbal nuances. These aromatic elements are enhanced by the French oak, offering additional layers of vanilla, toast, and a touch of smokiness.

As the wine graces the palate its complexity and structure would shine. The skin tannins and the aging in French oak, provide a balanced framework, offering both grip and finesse. The dark fruit flavours observed on the nose might carry over to the palate, alongside the added dimension of the oak's influence.

The French oak barrels contribute to the wine's texture and complexity, integrating seamlessly with the fruit characteristics. The vanilla and toasty notes from the oak could enhance the wine's overall profile without overpowering the varietal flavours.

The finish of the wine is both lingering and satisfying. The blend's balance and structure, combined with the French oak's influence, creates a finish that resonates with a harmonious interplay of flavours and textures.