JM 1ST APPROACH

Once again with a good year for Merlot the blend is merlot dominant with Merlot (53%) from our Rise, Avery and Silage vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon (37%) from Avery, Walker and Rise vineyards and Cabernet Franc (10%) from our Gumtree vineyard. Maturation was for 16 months in seasoned oak second and third fill to give a more subtle oak character with bottling in October 2011.

Deep rich red in colour, the nose is intense with aromas of ripe blackberry, liquorice and cranberry, combined with delicate mocha-coffee French oak. The palate demonstrates the Merlot dominance, being round and soft with precise dark fruit and a fine-tannin finish. Vintage 2010 looks to be an excellent vintage in Coonawarra and this wine will reward careful cellaring, and as usual we recommend decanting before drinking.

Fruit definition, lifted fragrance and generosity are rarely found at this price in Coonawarra. Layers of crunchy mulberries, ripe blackcurrants, even notes of pepper, are offset by dark chocolate oak and impressively age-worthy tannins. Rating: 92 Tyson Stelzer

.... It is a blend of merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc (the proportions vary from year to year) with quite exceptional colour, and is absolutely full to the gills with juicy cassis blackcurrant fruit, fine, ripe tannins and quality French oak in abundance. It's way better than the 2009 and, indeed, one of the best 'The Blends' to date. 95 poins James Halliday

You get a whole lot of bang for your buck with this outstanding entry level wine from one of Coonawarra's best small wineries. There is no doubt 2010 was an outstanding year in the Limestone Coast; producing dark, supple wines with good structure and plenty of flavour. This is a blend of merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc is soft and well-rounded with plenty of delightful fleshy blackberry fruit character. Plump and appealing, this is terrific wine for everyday drinking.  Windsor Dobbin