- Grampians/Bendigo, VIC - $16-$31
- Screwcap
- 13.5%alc
I'm putting my qualms with bottle variation aside for a moment, because it's strikingly apparent that Seppelt's removed the region(s) of origin from the front label of their 2008 Chalambar (although the back does state it's primarily sourced from the Grampians and Bendigo). I'm not sure why this change is, but the last thing I'd want to see is my beloved Chalambar relegated to the ranks of cross-regional generic Victorian shiraz.
Radiantly coloured with bright magenta hues, it's cleanly scented with a floral, violet infused aroma which effortlessly marries dark plums, ripe forest berries and chocolate/mocha oak with a concealed note of cured meat. Medium-full bodied yet sumptuously flavoured, it's smooth and harmonious, with ripe, slightly juicy flavours of black plums, redcurrants and blackberries marked by creamy cedar oak and hints of white pepper, which drive the wine towards a balanced finish coated in fine, ripe tannins. Its generous flavour through restrained alcohol is a plus.
ü+ Bottle variation and new labelling aside, this is a deliciously bright and exuberant Chalambar of considerable finesse and approachability. Drink to 2018.
92 points
I’d be willing to bet you could take the same $ 6.00 bottle of wine and package it differently selling it easily for ten times that. Packaging and presentation can really make a big difference in perceived value.
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting thing to say for someone trying to sell wine bottle labels!.......;-)
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