98 Points - Ray Jordan
Charlie Melton is an icon of the Barossa; one of the first to recognise the value and tradition of the Barossa’s old vineyard Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro. Representing the flagship wine of Charles Melton, Nine Popes is a legendary GSM that takes its place among Australia's most acclaimed and collectible red wines.
A play on the Chateauneuf-du-Papes style, the 2018 Charles Melton Nine Popes is made from dry farmed, old vine bush Grenache, which is co-fermented with Shiraz (with just a few single-varietal tanks joined the blend later in the piece). Opening with bright, lifted aromatics, the characteristic musk of Grenache sits alongside the dark plums of Shiraz and herbaceous spice of the Mataro. The palate is plush and balanced, with licorice and dark berry flavours, supported by fine oak tannins. A wine of power and finesse this is another stunning release of Nine Popes.
“98 Points. One of Australia’s most famous and significant wines. It’s a blend of Barossa grenache, shiraz and mataro. Melton has adopted a grenache dominant style with shiraz and mataro adding to the blend. It is a wine of complexity and layers with a mix of sweet fruit and spices all under a highly scented aroma. Grainy slightly chalky tannins hold it neatly. A modern classic.”- Ray Jordan, The West Australian.
