2009 Jester Cabernet Sauvignon
Bright, lush and juicy, Jester Cabernet Sauvignon shows a full bodied palate and mouth filling richness. 20% of the fruit has been handled in the Amarone manner- this technique of drying fruit adds complexity and fullness and produces soft juicy tannins. Jester Cabernet is upfront and approachable for early appreciation, delivering excellent quality for the price.
Monarcho was the most eccentric of all the Jesters in the court of Elizabeth 1. He was the only fool named by Shakespeare in any of his works and features in “Loves Labour Lost”. Italian born the usually blue attired Monarcho was more intelligent and politically aware than his court persona. After starring as the fool for six years, he retired in 1575 and died shortly after in 1580.
MATURATION • Aged in 2-4 year old French oak for 9 months
CLOSURE • Stelvin
COLOUR • Bright with vibrant red brick hues
NOSE • Complex aromas of red fruits, intermixed with dried flowers and herbs
with nuances of cut plums, spice and liquorice adding depth of character
PALATE • Rich with firm long tannins. Vibrant fruit fills the palate which rounds out
to retain focus and freshness
CELLARING • Medium term cellaring of 3 to 5 years will enhance the depth and
personality of the wine
Wine Specs
Vintage
2009
Varietal
Cabernet Sauvignon
Harvest Date
13th March 2009
PH
3.5
Bottling Date
1st February 2010
Residual Sugar
2.1 g/L
Tannin
6.71 g/L
Alcohol %
14.5
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
Deep crimson, with brick red hues. the 2008 Jester Cabernet shows liquorice, nutmeg and cassis notes which provide a lift to the subtle hints of French oak. Well rounded on the palate, the firm tannins are complemented by nuances of chocolate, blackcurrant and earth.
Ratings
94 points - James Halliday
Awards
Matthew Jukes, 2010 Matthew Jukes Top 100 Best Australian Wines, May 2010
Vineyard Notes
The vineyards are in the Willunga district in the southern end of McLaren Vale. The heavy grey loam soil over sandstone, intermixed with black Biscay clay, combined with a maritime climate, contribute to an even ripening period and the development of rich fruit flavours and ripe tannins.
Production Notes
McLaren Vale experienced a mild growing season with ideal conditions for budburst and flowering. Most inland regions had a reduction in set due to a burst of heat in November however in McLaren Vale, due to it's proximity to the ocean, the effects were nullified. Good early season rainfall contributed to the already rejuvenated water table and the fruit ripened evenly without any heat stress. Cool nights and mild days allowed good acid maintenance, keeping the fruit bright and flavoursome but above all, balanced.
Winemaker Notes
20% of the grapes were left on 10kg drying racks for 5 weeks and 3 days, in the traditional Amarone manner, to concentrate flavour. The fruit for Jester was fermented on skins for 6 days, at cool and warm temperatures, to enhance pure berry fruit. The wine was then pressed and underwent partial barrel fermentation. Natural malolactic fermentation occurred before the wine was racked.
Food Pairing Notes
Morrocan style lamb curry with eggplant and chickpeas
