Evans & Tate Redbrook Estate Cabernet Merlot 2018

The Next Generation of a Margaret River Classic

The name Redbrook has always evoked a sense of indulgence and luxury. In keeping with this philosophy, we have created two ranges of incredible wines to accentuate the unique character of Margaret River.

The new Redbrook Estate range delivers varietally expressive, fruit-driven wines that are ready to enjoy upon release, with no compromise on the quality and style expected from those bestowed with the Redbrook name.

Vintage: 2018 was an extraordinary vintage in Margaret River, with wet winter months followed by a warm spring to promote budburst and a dry early summer perfect for fruit set. Isolated heavy rain then swelled the fruit, with a beautiful late summer of warm days and cool nights; ideal conditions for accentuating the flavour, ripeness and acid balance of the grapes.

Winemaking: Pre-ferment cold soak maceration for 3 days on the Cabernet Sauvignon and 5 days for the other varieties. The Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec all fermented in open top fermenters. High level of must aeration at the start and mid fermentation due to structured year. Hard pressings of the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon not included also due to the structured vintage for the red varieties. 10 day ferment for the Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, 7 days for the Merlot and Cabernet Franc. 100% French oak used across the board with 15% new. 500L puncheons used for the Merlot and Cabernet Franc (both matured for 12 months) and 300L hogsheads for the Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon (both matured for 15 months). Highest proportions of Cabernet Franc and Malbec ever used in this blend due to the vintage and to achieve house style.

TASTING NOTES

Colour: Rich purple/red with a vibrant purple rim.

Aroma: Distinctly Margaret River; driven by pure Cabernet Sauvignon aromas of blackberry, plum, bay leaf and a touch of black olive.

Palate: The Merlot fruit, and a small splash of Malbec, add texture, balance, length and a luxurious fragrance to create a seamless, uniquely Margaret River red.

Cellaring: Will show youthful, perfumed notes with fresh fruit flavours upon release. For those after additional complexity and softness, three or more years of bottle age is suggested.

Food Pairing: Rosemary-infused lamb shank casserole with soft polenta