Hamelin Bay Rampant Red Cabernet Shiraz Merlot Australia 2006

Price: £11.49

White pepper on the nose with vanilla and blackberries on the palate with soft, balanced tannins.

Producer: Hamelin Bay was established in 1992 near Karridale in the coolest most southerly part of the Margaret River wine region. Karridale fruit is always the last to ripen generally between mid March and mid April for the major varieties. Hamelin Bay was the first commercial winery to establish in Karridale with significant development in recent years as winemakers seek out the more elegant flavours associated with the longer ripening period available in the area. The family crest is a two-legged dragon called a Wyvern. The Latin ("esse quam videri") on the label is their motto "to be rather than seem to be" a wine of distinction.

Region: Margaret River is both a town and a wine region in the southwestern corner of Western Australia. The region is situated within a narrow 100km strip between two capes - Cape Naturalist in the north and Cape Leeuwin in the south. As the region is uniquely bounded by ocean on three sides, it is characterised by a maritime climate. In January the mean temperature is 19 degrees and there is usually a long dry period between October and April perfect for growing cool-climate grapes. In spring salty winds whip up from the sea, causing problems for the vines when flowering. This often results in low grape production and associated increase in quality.

Historically, small independent wineries have produced premium-quality wines here that command high prices. The grapes thrive on the gravelly, gritty and sandy soils, which tend to lose their moisture very quickly on the slopes, and the resulting wines are concentrated. The region is noted for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and blends of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. But Merlot and Shiraz are gaining in reputation.

Style: Full-bodied with good chunky tannins that go down well with a rich hearty meal. You can tell these wines have seen oak by the toasty, vanilla aromas as opposed to full-on fruit. You’ll find Rioja and similar styles within this section.

Ratings for older vintages

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