97 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 2022 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.
"97 Points. This iconic GSM blend put Australian GSM on the map. Primary fruit comes from nearly 100-year-old bush vine Grenache, balanced with Shiraz and a small amount of Mataro. The nose is intricate, combining licorice, spice, dark fruits, and subtle perfumed confectionary-like notes. The palate is powerful yet soft and generous, seamlessly integrating a sweet mid-palate with complementary spices. $110. 14.5% alc. Drink: 2025 - 2040."- Ray Jordan, Wine Pilot
"96 Points. A stone-cold classic Barossa GSM from fruit sourced in the south of the Barossa Valley, matured in French oak for two years. Fragrant with a pastille brightness on the bouquet alongside black cherry, blackberry and dark plum fruits, flashes of raspberry, layered with hints of dark licorice, cocoa nibs, roasting meats, citrus blossom and earth. Pure and spice-laden with an elegant line, bright minerally acidity and plenty of persistence on the finish. The consistency of this lovely wine is really something. 14.5% Alc, Drink 2026-2046."- Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion.
