Region Hilltops, Cowra, Big Rivers (Wagga Wagga)
The majority of the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes used to make this wine came from the Hilltops region in the Central Ranges area of New South Wales, with a small portion grown in the University’s vineyards in Wagga Wagga. The Merlot was grown in Cowra.

Wine Maker: Andrew Drumm  Assistant Winemaker: Anthony D'Onise

Vintage 2004 
The vintage was very hot, however the Hilltops region is well-suited to growing Cabernet Sauvignon due to its slightly higher altitude which keeps the vines cooler, allowing more time for flavour development and ensuring full phenolic ripeness. The Wagga fruit brought sweet jammy fruit, while the Merlot from Cowra showed soft tannins.

Bouquet The bouquet is full with a range of lingering berry flavours.

Palate The wine has excellent balance with a long, firm, fine tannin finish. This is a rich complex wine with the flavours well integrated from 18 months maturation in a combination of new and old French oak barrels.

Food Match The wine is an ideal accompaniment to game and red meat dishes.

Analysis
Alc/Vol: 14.5
Harvest Date: March and April 2004
T.A.: 6.09
Bottled: October 2005
pH: 3.41
Released: June 2008
RS: 2.5
Oak Handling: 18 months in new and old French oak hogsheads
Total SO2 91
Cellaring: 2006-2010

AWARDS
Gold Medal and Top 100 at 2006 Sydney International Wine Challenge
Bronze Medal at 2008 Cowra Wine Show
Silver Medal at 2007 Royal Adelaide Wine Show
Bronze Medal at 2007 Royal Melbourne Wine Show
Bronze Medal at 2006 Royal Melbourne Wine Show
Bronze Medal at 2006 Cowra Wine Show
Bronze Medal at 2006 Wagga Wagga (Southern NSW) Wine Show

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