Monday 4 December 2017

Time Adams 2014 Cabernet Malbec - Clare Valley


ONE TO NOTE:  FOR a long time one of the most famous blends in France's Bordeaux region was Cabernet Malbec, until growers there were devastated both emotionally and financially when frosts in 1956 wiped out a massive seventy-five per cent of their Malbec crops, and nervous about re-planting they shifted growing to Cahors in the country's south-west.

Coincidentally around the same time the blend was being put together for the first time in South Australia's Clare Valley – where today many serious aficionados believe Cabernet Malbec has become the "Holy Grail" of the Valley's red wine production.

And a master of the blend, Tim Adams Wines has just released their 2014 vintage, winemakers Tim Adams and Brett Schultz bringing together 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Malbec for this rewardingly lip-smacking drop. The Malbec component, they say, adds to the complexity of the Cabernet's mid-palate by giving it violet and mulberry flavours, and additional texture and richness that all makes for a full-bodied wine with generous chalky tannins.

This one is priced at $25 and makes for a great match with braised lamb shanks, or a good meaty lasagne.


[] IF you have a fondness for braised lamb shanks, here's a perfect match on the table.


 4 Dec 17

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