Sensuous, muscular, complex.
The Judge is an impressive flagship blend of estate grapes from some of Hester Creek's oldest vines. Merlot (37%), old vine Cabernet Franc (33%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (30%) were fermented in Ganimede fermenters for 15 days. These unique Italian tanks use natural carbon dioxide to gently extract colour, tannin and aromatics. The components were then gently pressed, and following malolactic fermentation aged on fine lees for several months. The lots were then judged, blended and aged for a further 24 months in primarily French oak barrels, 35% new.
It's always an opulent wine but the 2018 is really outstanding. Sweet red currents and Ribena are woven with crushed lilacs and pipe tobacco, mocha and a hint of candied apricot. The palate is as sensuous and supple as the nose suggests. More harmonious (IMO) than previous vintages, it has a muscular structure wrapped in a velvet cloak. Lengthy and complex, it's a wine to be proud of.
Pairs great with Gone Crackers Olive Oil & Cracked Pepper
 
©copyright 2021 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - July 21st, 2021