McLaren Vale is a Mediterranean variety hotspot, but Nebbiolo is something I don't see much of from this diverse region. From a tiny 0.25ha block in Clarendon perched 280 metres above, my interest was piqued from the get-go.
The colour alone nails the Nebbiolo brief, while the aromas head firmly into savoury territory with stripped bark, sautéed mushrooms, liquorice, tar and dark chocolate nibs. Mandarin peel brings a flicker of brightness, while a hint of eucalypt and mint gives this a distinctly Australian feel.
There's a cosy warmth beneath it all, with dried cherries and red plums providing the fruit core before dried red petals and a nostalgic flicker of Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate emerge with air. The palate is very dry and notably tense, remaining tightly wound even after a couple of days in the glass. Drying, powdery tannins grip firmly and linger.
This is Nebbiolo with muscle, savoury detail and an unmistakable Australian accent. It demands patience, but there's plenty here to suggest that time will soften those edges and reveal more of what lies beneath.
91/100
Region: McLaren Vale
