JM 1ST APPROACH

Vintage 2010 was outstanding, early and mild with even temperatures and a good heat summation. Blended from Cabernet Sauvignon (92%) mainly from our younger vineyards Avery, Rise, Hollow and Silage, with Merlot (8%) from Rise and Avery vineyards. It was matured for 17 months in new and used French oak from St Martin, Seguin Moreau, Darguad and Jaegle and Taransaud prior to bottling in October 2011.

Deep red in colour, the nose is rich with perfectly ripened dark blackberry, elderberry and cassis fruit. The palate is medium bodied, but intense with coffee and vanilla characters adding to the dark fruit. The finish is long and textured with fine, grainy grape tannins. This wine will reward careful cellaring and we recommend decanting before drinking.

A 92/8% blend that spent 17 months in new and used French oak from topflight coopers; the crimson colour leads into a bouquet and palate with blackcurrant and cassis to the fore; the oak adds to both texture and flavour, but it is the lifted fruit on the finish that really puts the stamp of quality on the wine. 94 points James Halliday