You can blame or thank Rob @robswinetrail for my opening of this wine unusually early, but personally, in retrospect, I have to say thank you
A blend, in equal parts, from the best barrels of Cabernet/Merlot/Petit Verdot. The blend has the same vibrancy in its colour spectrum as the other 2021 reds from Pyramids Road but this one is just a little darker, perhaps from the Petit Verdot.
A fragrant bouquet with drifts of cassis, violets, dark plums, black berries, spices and earth.
This is surprisingly approachable for such a young Bernie’s Blend. If it were possible to describe the palate in a single word then conceivably that word could be exquisite. The fruit is ripe and introduces luscious to savoury the structure and balance allows that marriage to experience great harmony with many anniversaries in its future. Cassis and blackberries swim in intermingling swirls of dark plums, blueberries, black cherries and a slight raspberry succulence lurks late, some mocha and a little energy from black pepper and cloves lifts and enlivens the taste buds further. The acid is unmistakably cool climate and producing a flawlessly managed lift across the length of the palate. The oak is a background support presence and the tannins are rather remarkable, fine yet powerful and exactly what you would have ordered for such a wine. Perhaps the best Bernie’s I’ve tasted for many years and yes you can drink it now but the balance and the component complexity suggest you can also drink it in 20 years with accurate anticipated joy.
Tasted: Sunday 26th March, 2023 without food and then with over several hours.
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $50
Suggested Drinking Window: now to 2041+
Winemaker: Warren Smith
Fruit Source: Estate and Rosemary Hill Vineyard
Oak: French
Visit Website
