Charles Melton 'The Kirche' Shiraz Cabernet 2021
The Wine
Enchanting deep colour. The nose has a density of aroma (if you can smell density!). The Cabernet component punches above its weight in the blend with the leafy blackcurrant aromas giving the wine real personality. Expect a degree of weight and gravitas which the Kirche vineyard on Krondorf road consistently produces. A higher percentage (31%) of new oak brings further complexity and the palate has a lovely generosity whilst remaining nimble and balanced. Charles Melton
The Details
Variety - Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon
Country - Australia
Region - South Australia
Sub Region - Barossa Valley
Extra - Screwcap
Year - 2021
Volume - 750ml
About the Wine Maker 
The passion for Barossa's historic vines inspired Dan Standish and Jaysen Collins to establish Massena wines in 2000. At that time, Dan was the head winemaker at Torbreck, while Jaysen served as the GM of Turkey Flat. Both hailing from Barossa, their joint venture stemmed from a shared aspiration to craft wines with distinct character, balance, and an embodiment of the joy found in winemaking.
Finding vineyards that resonated with their philosophy was an extensive endeavor, culminating in the inclusion of Stonegarden's caretaker, Glen Monaghan, into the Massena fold. Massena wines are exclusively made from fruit provided by committed growers in the rich red soils on the Barossa's North Western fringe. The traditional Barossa varietals of Shiraz, Grenache, and Mataro thrive in the subregions of Greenock, Stonewell, and Moppa, nurtured by ancient vineyards with dry-farmed, low-yielding vines that are up to 150 years old. The inclusion of the Stonegarden vineyard, established in 1858, offers a collection of remarkable sites that authentically represent provenance and terroir expression.
Given the exceptional quality of the fruit, minimal intervention is required in the winemaking process. There are no additives, fining, or filtration, and only a small amount of sulphur is utilized. The wines are crafted in a traditional manner, with whole bunch fermentation contributing to the savory complexity of both the whites and reds. Massena wines exemplify the contemporary, modern style of Barossa wines and are certainly worth discovering.
