Region and Vineyards
The grapes for this 2019 Baudinet GSM blend are sourced from the renowned Clare Valley region, located on Ngadjuri land in South Australia. Known for its diverse microclimates and varied soil types, Clare Valley provides ideal growing conditions for red varieties. The 2019 vintage faced a mix of dry conditions with cooler-than-average temperatures, resulting in smaller yields of highly concentrated, flavor-rich fruit. Despite some extreme weather events, including record low spring temperatures and an exceptionally hot summer, the red varieties displayed remarkable resilience, producing grapes with intense flavors and balanced acidity.
The Clare Valley’s unique terroir, characterized by its dry climate and well-drained soils, adds structure and depth to the Grenache, Shiraz, and Mataro grapes. This combination of conditions yields a wine that expresses the classic Clare Valley character with a powerful and layered profile.
Winemaking
Each varietal in the Baudinet Blend—Grenache, Shiraz, and Mataro—is harvested separately at optimal ripeness to capture the best of its flavor profile. Traditional winemaking techniques, including hand plunging, délestage, and basket pressing, are used in small open fermenters to gently extract color, tannins, and flavors from the grapes. After pressing, each batch is aged for 14 months in seasoned French oak barrels, enhancing complexity and integration without overpowering the fruit. This careful aging process allows the individual characters of each grape to blend seamlessly, creating a wine with great depth and a refined structure.
The resulting cuvée is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, achieving a harmonious balance between fruit intensity, savory elements, and refined tannins, making it a versatile and age-worthy wine.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep garnet red with a vibrant purple hue.
- Aroma: A complex bouquet of blackberry, plum, and spice, with undertones of tanned leather and fresh lavender.
- Palate: Concentrated and seamless, featuring flavors of red plum, cherry, and blackberry. The wine has a savory backbone with subtle hints of smoke and tar, supported by silky, plush tannins that lead to a long, expressive finish. Continues to evolve beautifully as it airs in the glass.
Did You Know?
The Kilikanoon Baudinet Blend has garnered significant acclaim, winning multiple trophies, including the International Wine Challenge Triple Trophy for Clare Valley Red, South Australian Red, and Australian Red, showcasing its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Slow-cooked lamb with rosemary and thyme: The wine’s depth and tannic structure pair well with the savory richness of lamb.
- Duck confit with cherry reduction: Complements the wine’s plum and cherry flavors, enhancing its complexity.
- Mushroom and truffle risotto: Highlights the earthy, smoky notes in the wine.
- Aged hard cheeses like Comté or Manchego: Complements the wine’s concentrated fruit and tannin profile.