Deep garnet colored with a touch of brick, the 1999 The Malleea gives fragrant aromas of kirsch, potpourri and dried mulberries over notes of figs, leather and dried herbs. On the palate the structure is in the forefront with firm chewy tannins and very crisp acid. The fruit is fading slightly, though it still offers layers of complex, mature flavors, finishing long with some spice coming through. Drink it now. Catching-up with owner Brian Lynn recently, in addition to his current releases I tasted through verticals of Majella’s Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and The Malleea to track the evolution of the styles. The results go to show, it certainly pays to put a few bottles of these well constructed wines away. Majella does not currently have a US importer.

On the crisp side, but it's packed with juicy berry and fresh tobacco character, a distinctive range of flavors that echo beautifully on the lively finish. Drink now through 2005. 500 cases made, 50 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Coonawarra Select to Add