Woodlands Clémentine 2019

Woodlands 'Clémentine' 2019 is a distinguished red wine from the Margaret River region of Western Australia, produced by the esteemed Woodlands Wines. Established in 1973, Woodlands is one of the pioneering wineries in the area, renowned for crafting premium Bordeaux-style blends that reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards.

The 2019 'Clémentine' is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 18% Malbec, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. The fruit was harvested over three weeks starting from 27th March 2019, gently destemmed, and hand-sorted berry by berry. Fermentation occurred without added yeast to enhance aromatic complexity, followed by 17 months of maturation in French oak barrels, 60% of which were new.

Appearance Pale straw with a brilliant, almost crystalline clarity. The wine’s shimmering silver-green reflections hint at its youthful vibrancy, while the depth of colour suggests subtle barrel influence. As the wine swirls in the glass, slow-moving, well-defined legs form, indicating a refined texture and balanced weight. The overall brightness and intensity reflect both freshness and ageing potential.

Aroma: Saturated with aromas of black and red cherry, raspberry, star anise, five-spice, and cedar oak. Subtle hints of lavender and rosemary add complexity, while underlying notes of liquorice and cocoa provide depth.

Taste: The palate reveals primary red fruit flavors, including cherry and raspberry, complemented by liquorice and cocoa. Fresh acidity keeps everything in balance, while spice and young firm tannins emerge upon decanting.

Finish: Long and refined, with fine-grained tannins supporting a lingering aftertaste of red fruits, spice, and a touch of cedar. The wine's structure and acidity suggest excellent aging potential.

Food Pairing: This Bordeaux-style blend pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, where its complex flavours complement the richness of the meat. It also complements beef tenderloin with a red wine reduction, enhancing the savory elements of the dish. A fantastic match for aged cheddar or gouda, highlighting the wine's fruit and spice nuances. Best decanted before serving to allow its full array of aromas and flavours to unfold.