Charles Melton Nine Popes GSM 2019 is an iconic Barossa Valley blend of old-vine Grenache and Shiraz, aged 27 months in French oak. Wonderfully fragrant with pure fruit, fine tannins, and exceptional ageing potential.
Appearance
Rich hue with a vibrant red rim, reflecting the wine's concentration and quality from old-vine Barossa Valley fruit.
Aroma
Wonderfully fragrant red and dark plum fruits with high tones of raspberry coulis and orange blossom. The aromatic profile is a delightful blend of fragrant perfumes and spices, supported by a subtle undertone of new oak. Under the fruit lies layered spice and hints of red liquorice, redcurrant jelly, roasting meats, and earth.
Palate
The fruit on the palate is pure and true, with flavours of liquorice and meat stock taking the lead. The tannins are tight, powdery, and fine, providing a plush and well-structured mouthfeel thanks to the finely crafted tannins. There is a lovely cadence to the acidity as it propels the wine forward, creating exceptional balance and allowing this wine to age gracefully for years to come. The 27 months in French oak (50% new) adds complexity without overwhelming the pure fruit character.
Charles Melton's Nine Popes is still, and always has been, a joy to drink, representing one of the Barossa Valley's most iconic and beloved blends.
Pairs With
Grilled lamb, beef dishes, barbecued meats, aged cheddar, venison, duck, slow-cooked meats, mature hard cheeses
Serve at 16-18°C. Enjoy now or cellar for 10-15 years. Decant for 1 hour to allow the wine to fully express itself.
Review
"Charlie Melton's Nine Popes was one of the first wines that make me fall in love with Barossa wines, and it still makes me go all gooey-eyed. It's old-vine grenache and shiraz aged for 27 months in French oak (50% new). Wonderfully fragrant red and dark plum fruits with high tones of raspberry coulis and orange blossom. Under the fruit lies layered spice and hints of red licorice, redcurrant jelly, roasting meats and earth. The fruit on the palate is pure and true, the tannins tight, powdery and fine and there is a lovely cadence to the acidity as it propels the wine forward. It's still, and always has been, a joy to drink."
97 Points - Dave Brookes, Halliday's Wine Companion, 6th July 2023
