2023 The Mallee Root
Vintage Notes
2023 proved an extended yet very rewarding vintage in the Margaret River Wine Region. Optimal, dry weather conditions paired with the absence of any significant climatic challenges or disease pressure set the scene for a dependable growing season, ideal for gentle, consistent ripening across all varieties.
Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested on 12th April and Malbec on 24th March.
Winemaking Notes
On delivery to the winery, the fruit is hand-plunged in open top fermenters, which helps contribute to the soft generosity. Spending twelve days on skins gives the wine good flesh and bright fruit with a refined tannin profile. It is then barrel aged in French oak for 15 months (of which 35% of the oak is new), with a secondary fermentation occurring in the barrel. The final blend is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Alc 14.0%
Tasting Notes
• On the nose, notes of cassis and plum intertwine with sweet toasty oak nuances
• A subtle floral perfume enhances the aromatics.
• The palate is smooth and rounded, with a silky texture. Bright red currants emerge. Providing a lively
contrast to deeper blue berry fruit flavours.
• The balance between fruit and oak contributes to harmonious and generous
mouthfeel.
This wine speaks of a terrific vintage from Margaret River, showcasing both vibrancy and sophistication.
Reviews
Mattinson | Campbell Mattinson | 92/100
This is a medium-bodied wine of good fruit and good character. It tastes of blackcurrant, tobacco, chocolate, iodine and mint, though there’s an undergrowth-like note that helps give it a bit of extra interest. This is the kind of wine that is as equally at home on the couch as it is on the dinner table. It walks a middle road, in a positive way, and will suit and please most folks, in most situations.
Winepilot | Cyndal Petty | 93/100
Just like many of the 2023 reds out of Margaret River, this blend is full of plush fruit and has no hard corners. The savoury edge of Cabernet appears as worn bay leaf, propping up a juicy fruit profile of blackberry juice and red currant. In the mouth, it’s full of energy. The tannins are grainy and grippy, while oak lends a classic, cedar finish. No bells. No whistles. Just good red wine at a good price.
Cyndal Petty - WinePilot.com | 93/100 points
Victory Point 2023 The Mallee Root
For red wines under $30 that actually do the trick, I reckon Victory Point will dance with the best. This Malbec-Cabernet blend (63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot, and 2% Cabernet Franc) is somehow still varietal — not sure I can explain that. Gentle, with round edges. It wears party shirts and chinos. Even palate weight, with a juicy-chewy finish. This is a bargain. Great wine. Great price. Drink now.
Winepilot | 93