97 Points - Dave Brookes Charlie Melton is an icon of the Barossa; one of the first to recognise the value and tradition of the Barossa’s old vineyard Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro. Representing the flagship wine of Charles Melton, Nine Popes is a legendary GSM that takes its place among Australia's most acclaimed and collectible red wines. A play on the Chateauneuf-du-Papes style, the 2021 Charles Melton Nine Popes is made from dry farmed, old vine bush Grenache, which is co-fermented with Shiraz (with just a few single-varietal tanks joined the blend later in the piece). Opening with bright, lifted aromatics, the characteristic musk of Grenache sits alongside the dark plums of Shiraz and herbaceous spice of the Mataro. The palate is plush and balanced, with licorice and dark berry flavours, supported by fine oak tannins. A wine of power and finesse this is another stunning release of Nine Popes. "97 Points. I've mentioned previously that Charlie Melton's Nine Popes was one of the first wines that made me fall in love with Barossa wines. I guess you could call it a regional classic and it remains one of my favourite wines from the Barossa. A blend of old-vine grenache, shiraz and mataro from Krondorf, Rowland Flat and Eden Valley. Perfumed red and dark plum fruits with raspberry pip and citrus blossom top notes. Hints of dried citrus rind, medina spice, rose petals, charcuterie, bath talc, pan juices, gentle oak spice and earth. It's savoury and succulent at once with a sapid, briny energy and a sweep of sour morello cherries on the exit. So good. $105. 14.5% alc. Drink: 2025 - 2040. Screwcap"- Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion.
