Charles Sturt 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot
Regions: Hilltops, Orange, Gundagai & Wagga (all NSW) | $15
Had a chance recently to taste some wines from my alma mater, Charles Sturt University, then Riverina College of Advanced Education, from where I graduated in wine science many moons ago.
They’ve been producing wine and winemakers at the uni’s Wagga campus for nearly 40 years, and growing grapes there and elsewhere in NSW as well.
This elegant dry red stood out in the line-up, mainly because of its clean, strong cabernet flavours — herbacous, stalky blackcurrant and blackberry flavours bundled together in some attractive oak and finishing a firm tannic grip.
And I’m sure that the merlot plays an important role in keeping those tannins in check and ensuring that the middle palate is full and satisfying.
An excellent red at the price.
Visit http://winery.csu.edu.au
— JOHN ROZENTALS*
*John Rozentals is a Charles Sturt University Bachelor of Applied Science (Wine Science) graduate.
Samples for tasting and review should be addressed to John Rozentals, PO Box 3484, Rhodes 2138.
