Summerfield 2003 Tradition April 05

A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Shiraz and 15% Merlot; the bouquet shows sweet candied fruit, coffee, brooding plum and pine scented oak influence. On the uptake, the palate is nowhere near as sweet as the bouquet suggests, however are there is underlying sweetness on the finish. Texturally, the mouth feel is unusual; initially smooth tannins provide a supple mouth feel but they finish very firm on the back palate. Multiple dark fruit flavours, coffee, spice, chocolate and cinnamon make for an interesting flavour profile. Unfortunately I found the package a little disjointed. Rated as Acceptable with ** for value. It would probably be better with food, which may explain the Sydney Top 100 Blue Gold stickers.