Balnaves The Tally Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

 "The Balnaves vineyard comprises twelve blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon vines of varying acreage and vine age, the oldest planted in 1975. Since the construction of Balnaves winery in 1996, these blocks are divided again into smaller parcels, following soil types and topography, with approximately forty Cabernet Sauvignon fermentations being conducted each vintage.The best of these ferments are set a side during vintage for our Balnaves Cabernet Sauvignon and in outstanding years, Balnaves "The Tally" Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. The Tally illustrates a trend in Coonawarra: a trend to strive beyond that which the region has produced before..."- Campbell Mattinson

2006 was very early with reds being harvested in March and in some cases wineries finishing vintage in March. Heat and water stress through the growing season contributed to the early picking with budburst only a week or so early. Yields have been exceptionally low especially in Cabernet Sauvignon many blocks around 1-1.5 tonne /acre. Rain mid vintage put vines back on a more normal timing and very good fruit was taken later in vintage with the same baumes but better fruit depth and tannin ripeness – a vintage in two halves. Wine quality looks solid with overall very good quality but volumes will be limited with Cabernet Sauvignon producing the best wines. Fruit similar in many ways to the 2005 vintage, more mid weight wines but with very good fruit density and length.

"Strong hit of mint. Bands of violet, boysenberry, blackcurrant. Super fresh. Barely developed. Floral and fruity but lingering. Elegant but every detail is emphasised. Looks excellent. Still needs a little time. "Campbell Mattinson, WIne Front, 2015