HeadImage

The Good Juice

We have selected two red wines this week from wineries that are relatively new to Profile Wine Group; Maverick Wines Pty Ltd. and Villa Mt Eden. Maverick Wines Pty Ltd. was established in 2004. The objective was and is to become one of the top premium boutique wineries in Australia. Although the company is young, Maverick owns 100 acres of vineyards from the top terroirs across the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley. Approximately half of the vines are over 50 years old, and many much older. Villa Mt. Eden’s winemaking and viticulture team combines classic winemaking talent with an unceasing spirit of adventure and a drive for perfection. Villa Mt. Eden has found success with an award-winning winemaking style that results in lush elegant wines.
VillaLabel
 Villa Mount Eden, 2005 Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $23.95/bottle

The growing season for this vintage was defined by periods of above average temperatures early on and cooler temperatures during maturation. 2005 was a bountiful harvest, creating aromatic and flavorful wines due to the extremely long growing and maturity seasons. The primary source of this wine is the Tall Trees Vineyard in Yountville., CA. These vines, which were planted in 1998 are just beginning to hit full stride. The Bordeaux classical blending varietals of Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Franc are also grown at Tall trees Vineyard and integrated into this wine.

Thirty percent whole berries were introduced into the fermentors to help preserve ripe fruit flavors, and minimize aggressive tannin extraction. Gentle pumpovers and rack & returns extraction techniques were employed over an eight-day fermentation to enhance colour and flavour extraction. Secondary fermentations were completed and barrel aging lasted for 24 months in 60% French and 40% American Oak barrels. Regular quarterly rackings gracefully age the wines while gradually clarifying them.

The 05’ vintage displays black plum aromas along with caramel cherry flavours. On the palate there are subtle oak nuances that mesh well with the earthy currant characters that are present. I would pair this wine with Herb-Crusted Strip Steaks with Sautéed Zucchini Squash and Red Onion Compote.
MaverickBottle Maverick 2006 Twins GSM $30.95/bottle

Maverick’s Greenrock Rise vineyard is situated on the gently undulating slopes of the Western Barossa while the Trial Hill vineyard is perched high in the cooler Eden Valley. Both vineyards produce Grenache of great character, albeit of very different nature; these “twins” are definitely not identical. Mild to warm conditions over spring and summer led to the rapid maturation of fruit and onset of vintage. In spite of a break in the weather and fall daytime temperatures late in March, conditions in the Barossa were favourable for very good colour and tannin development as well as good acid and pH levels.

The 2006 Twins GSM is a combination of Grenache parcels from Maverick’s Greenrock Rise vineyard and the cooler climate Trial Hill vineyard. On the nose there are juicy raspberries and plums. Vanillan spice and dried herbs are evident just under the fruit adding complexity. The wine is plush and focused on the palate and possesses excellent balance with great length. The textured palate finishes with savoury coating tannins.

The winery itself suggests that you pair the GSM with grilled and smoked meats, game, cassoulet (bean stew) or pasta. While I have no issues with these recommendations I’m going to be a little more specific that is, Mushroom-Stuffed Leg of Lamb with Creamed Butternut Squash and Cranberries. Enjoy.

When you have a moment please check out our website at www.profilewinegroup.com

How to order

Phone: 416-598-0033 extension 243 to speak directly with Allan Leal, or you can
E-mail him at aleal@profilewinegroup.com

All orders are COD. Payment can be made by Visa, MasterCard, AMEX or cheque. Your credit card will not be charged until the product is shipped.

Minimum Orders: There is a one case minimum order (12 bottles unless otherwise noted).

Delivery to a single destination within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is free of charge. Delivery outside of the GTA can be arranged.

You must be 19 years of age or older to place or receive a wine order.