Parker Terra Rossa First Growth 2005 - Coonawarra, South Australia
Bin No. PARKERFG05
Price: £38.00
Integral to the style and quality of the Parker wines has been the unique meso-climate of its vineyard, located in the southern part of the Coonawarra.
Whilst the famous cigar shaped terra rossa strip is quite compact (at 1.5km x 15km) there are noticeable climatic and soil differences within the strip that impart unique qualities on the wines.
Compared to the central and northern parts of Coonawarra Parker’s southerly site is less prone to frost, has a higher median temperature and benefits from crucial additional hang time with ripening occurring up to 10-14 days later.
A wet winter started season 2005 with good rains recharging the aquifer, the best refill in at least three years. Generally dry conditions followed with very good canopies and good leaf area. March and April produced typical “Indian Summer” weather, dry and warm, ideal conditions for ripening.
The grapes were harvested in early April under perfect conditions. A key component to the style and structure of the Parker First Growth is the 7 day warm fermentation and 4-6 week maceration on skins. Individual parcels were then matured in new French oak (Seguin Moreau Chateau and Taransaud Chateau) for 18 months before blending. The assembled blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (91%) and Merlot (9%) was returned to oak before egg fining and bottling.
This limited bottling is deep in colour with a purple hue. The nose is fine and lifted with intense pure cassis aromas, liquorice and nuances of fine smoky French oak. The palate is intense and deep with layered rich cassis, blackberry fruit and mineral overtones. An elegant structure is complemented by good acidity and balance, the finish is long and lingering with fine suede like tannins.
Whitehaven wines was formed in 1993 by Greg and Sue White, and winemaker, Simon Waghorn. Their aim was to establish a winery in Marlborough producing premium quality varietal wines. To achieve this they have brought together a leading New Zealand winemaker, a dedicated group of growers, and a small modern winery facility where top quality fruit can receive the 'hands-on' treatment that i
