Chalk Hill Estate is a compendium of unique microclimates, exposures and soil types. We are fortunate to be able to make everything from aromatic Sauvignon Blanc to big, bold Syrah. Nowhere is this ideal situation more evident than in our Estate Red, which is just that – the best blend of the red wines made from the estate. Each variety is perfectly matched to the vineyard site. The blend will also vary from year to year, as the vineyard yields and fruit quality depend greatly on the weather during springtime bloom and set, and during harvest.
It opens with intense aromas of blackberry, anise, lavender and dark chocolate. The palate offers more savory qualities like iron, tobacco and bay leaf while broad, supple tannins tie all of the flavors together. The finish is strikingly long and complemented by a slight toastiness from the oak influence. Appealing in its youth, this wine will also age beautifully over the next 15 years.
Critic Ratings
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Review - Published 3rd Jun 2021 - Rated 92:
Deep ruby-purple, the 2018 Estate Red is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Malbec, 10% Petit Verdot and 2% Carménère. It has lush aromas of dark cherries, cigar box, integrated baking spices and a waft of bay leaf. The palate is full-bodied with a ripe, grainy frame and seamless freshness, balancing its mineral-laced fruits with still youthful but very classy new oak. It deserves another 2-3 years in bottle. 3,870 cases produced. - Erin Brooks
Wine Spectator Review - Published Jul 31, 2022 - Rated 90:
Ripe loganberry, mulberry and plum notes meld nicely together in this version, which also reveals a hint of licorice snap and a flash of singed alder through the finish. Crowd-pleaser style. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Carmenère. Drink now through 2025. 9,521 cases made. — JM
