2015 Pimpala Vineyard Cabernet Merlot

The Story: “This exclusive, small batch range pay homage to the beautiful old vineyards that are the centrepiece of our home, the famous heritage listed Mount Hurtle winery. Established in the late 1800’s, Mount Hurtle has been our home since the early 1980’s.” - Geoff Merrill

Vintage Information: McLaren Vale had one of the earliest vintages on record this year, with mild weather playing an important role for the region; rainfall was lower than average and with dry conditions from early August meant supplementary irrigation was vital.

With only a few sporadic hot days, the weather allowed natural acids with low pH levels to develop. Yields had fallen just below average, however this varied depending on variety. Overall 2015 was a successful vintage.

Winemakers Notes: The colour is a dark red with good depth and clarity. Unmistakably Cabernet on the nose, this wine displays capsicum, red berries, dark chocolate, beetroot and black olive.

Wow, put this one away! A tight line of fantastic acidity runs through this wine like a pencil lead. Enhancing the herbaceous Cabernet flavours and drawing them out over the length of the palate. The Merlot is doing a fine job of adding ripeness and depth to this long and intense Cabernet blend.

Food Pairing: If I had to drink it now, (rather than wait a few years) I'd have it with beef cheeks, lamb shanks, osso bucco, or a chunky steak pie from Home Grain Bakery.

Winemakers: Geoff Merrill & Scott Heidrich

Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon 87% / Merlot 13%

Oak Treatment: 28 months in seasoned American and French oak hogsheads.

Region: McLaren Vale

Harvest Date: March 2015

Alc: 14.5%, pH: 3.32, TA: 7.60 g/L, RS: 2.1 g/L