Balnaves The Blend 2006 Tuesday, Jul 29 2008
Tasting Notes and Australia and Coonawarra and Variety and Red and cabernet et al
I think this is a much better wine than the more expensive Cabernet Merlot. It’s something of a bargain too.
It smells of blackberry and raspberry, vanilla custard, a bit of dark chocolate, play-doh, licorice and gum leaf. On the palate medium to full bodied with a delightful mix of berries, cedar and chocolate. Distinctly bright acidity, powdery tannins and an abundance of flavour presented with freshness and finesse complete the package. Lovely wine and a snip at the price.
Other Vintages : 2005
Rated : 91 Points
Tasted : Jul08
Alcohol : 14.5%
Price : $19
Closure : Screwcap
Drink : 2009 - 2014
Source : Winery Sample
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5 Responses to “Balnaves The Blend 2006”
July 29th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Play-doh eh? Pray tell, what colour?
You know, you can make your own, a little splash of red wine makes a gorgeous pink mix.
July 30th, 2008 at 8:09 am
I’m not a synaesthete - all the Play-Doh colours smell the same..although I do sometimes hear them say things..
GW
July 30th, 2008 at 11:25 am
I’ve heard mixed things about the Cab Merlot, I’ll have a go with a couple of these.
July 30th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
I personally felt the ‘05 was a bit better than 89 points (probably about 92 for me) but it was praying for about 5 years in the bottle first. Why do Australians approach wines so young? For the ‘05 the tannins were too firm, and some ground peppery thingy that I found should soften over time, hopefully so that the good underlying balance and flavour could shine through. GW, I see you have rated this higher than the ‘05, so it may well be worth a look for those liking a full bodied bordeaux type.
July 30th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
I reckon it’s significantly better than the 2005. But maybe I was having an off day. The 2005 presented astringent and jammy but was good solid fare.
GW