Print this Wine         1997 Mount Horrocks Cabernet Merlot   WATERVALE, CLARE VALLEY                 January Release   Merlot       The Clare Valley sits nicely climatically speaking, but not geographically, between the warm areas such as the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, and the cooler areas such as the Coonawarra. The Cabernet Sauvignon produced in these different zones is very much reflective of the climate. In many respects the Clare Valley has the best of both worlds, with the cooler years bringing more of the herbal components to the fore, whilst the warm vintages make big sweet and luscious wines like the naturally warm climates. As to which style is better, well that can't be answered, as it is up to personal preference, however the variety in the Clare Valley Cabernet fruit make it an intriguing wine style. 1997 sits pretty much in the warmer vintage category. Whilst it may hardly seem the trouble to call this wine a Cabernet Merlot given the Merlot component is but 5% when you taste the wine you can see that the Merlot does play an important part in the overall composition of the wine. The Merlot is noticeable on the bouquet but plays a more important role on the palate. Sweet , rich and ripe fruits are evident with blackcurrants combining with plums. There is some vanilla from the oak which adds to the complexity in the aromas. There is really a wonderful intensity and persistence of flavor with this wine on the palate. The fruits dominate the oak and there is ample weight to the mid-palate which is the reason for the inclusion of the Merlot component. At the back of the palate the tannins are there and at the moment they are relatively soft due to the luscious nature of the fruit. There is every indication, however to suggest that these tannins will assist the preservation of the fruit intensity of the wine. The wine has plenty of appeal right now. The flavor of the fruit is ripe and generous and the tannin does not interfere with the fruit. I am sure the wine will age for at least 6 to 8 years if you prefer to drink mellow and soft wines. The choice is a very pleasant one. Tender young lamb cutlets char broiled and sprinkled with rosemary would match the juicy fruity nature of the wine. Keep the food really simple to showcase the freshness of fruit. A slightly piquant Cheddar style cheese would also pair up quite well with the wine.

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