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Sunday 26 February 2012

Ridgemill Estate Monastrell Tempranillo 2009


A 2:1 blend of Monastrell (note the use of the Spanish name for the grape variety - one of only about four wineries I know of in Australia that do so) and Tempranillo.

The Tempranillo on the nose providing attractive, bright pippy-fruit aromatics; the Monastrell black-fruited depth - a suggestion of tapenade and a little oak. Rather concentrated, in the glass its a black mass with a vibrant rim.

Entry, smooth, spice immediately starts to build.  A little short in the mouth, the wine's energy instead going into the finish.  Acid adds extra length, carrying the black fruits with a final liquorice twist. 89/90 - Good

Source: Swapsies
Price: $25
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap

3 comments:

  1. Somebody recently was telling me that the rationale for monastrell over mourvedre was a clonal difference - ie Spanish clone vs French clone etc.

    It's probably worth investigating actually - I'll look into it.

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    Replies
    1. Very interesting...not seen that elsewhere before. I also thought that much of Australia's old vine stock was of Spanish origin...so where does Mataro...or Esparte...fit in :)

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    2. I know, it's muddled. I believe the Monastrell line came from talking with the folk over at Greenstone Vineyards (who have a cracking Sangiovese for that matter too).

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