A blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mataro, the 2009 Emigre has a medium to deep garnet color and aromas of warm mulberries, kirsch, dried cherries and raspberry preserves over notes of underbrush and spice cake. Very full bodied and opulent, it fills the mouth with spicy red berry flavors supported by refreshing acidity and a medium level of velvety tannins, finishing long. Delicious in this youthful primary stage, it should cellar gracefully to 2020+. The Colonial Estate does not currently have a USA importer.

The Colonial Estate’s two flagship wines come from their own property. The 2006 Emigre is a blend of four vineyards and six grape varieties (Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvedre, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, and Muscadelle) with yields less than one ton per acre. The complex aromas include smoke, underbrush, mineral, espresso, black cherry, and blackberry liqueur. This is followed by a full-bodied, layered, concentrated wine with spicy, savory flavors, good depth, and several years of aging potential. Drink it from 2012 to 2025. The Colonial Estate is the Australian project of Englishman and Bordeaux chateau owner Jonathan Maltus. His first vintage in Australia was 2002. The entry level wines are line-priced at $30 offering excellent bang for the buck.Importer: Single Vineyard Imports, www.maltus.com