Striking aromas of earthy, forest fruit and dried strawberry set things up. Dark cherry fruit and some pluminess provide plenty of flavour which is deep and giving. Savoury characters are also present. The fruit starts on the front of the palate, shifts to the side then back to the middle. The finish is dry with slight powdery tannins.
Now give this a couple of years and it will be seriously pumping. I did initially think there were some whole bunches but there are none present. However, a detailed discussion with winemaker Simon Black left me impressed with his vision not only for the brand but how he uses and intends to use whole bunches in the future. In short, it's either 100% whole bunch or none with Simon. Watch this space for some wines currently in barrel where he has successfully trialled his theory with 25% of the 2013 vintage committed to whole bunch vinification.
Region: Mornington Peninsula
RRP: $65
Source: Sample
www.Montalto.com.au