Summerfield 2005 Tradition July 07

Tasting Note

Sydney Time

Summerfield 2005 Tradition July 07

A wacky blend of Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc; the unusual combination works for me. There was a complex range of intoxicating aromas lurking, however it was difficult to zero in on any particular one. A bloody interesting drop that holds one's attention from the first sip! The rich, deep, strong fruit is framed by dusty tannins and supported by fresh acid. A muscular-weight wine with a supple consistency and rock solid construction, the complexity is diverse. Blackcurrant, plum, vanilla, coffee, spices and mint flavours finish long and dry; the flavours are layered with the sweetness offset by a secondary layer of off-sweet characters. Yummy! Whilst it's drinking well now and rated as Recommended with **** for value, it should improve and reach its peak drinking window between 2011 and 2014, at which time the rating should increase. The wine went beautifully with barbecued low-fat, gourmet beef sausages. Sealed under screwcap.