Words from a Wine Glass

When it came to writing the review for this wine I realised when I see a person’s name on the front label, I’ve gotten into the habit of using ‘google’ to see if there is history or a story behind that name.  It was no different with this one, except after I did so, I thought I should really look to see if there is a Gartelmann family story or some history behind the ‘Jesse’ name.  As it turns out, it’s both.  Here’s how it goes.

Jorg Gartelmann is the owner.  His son is Phillip and Phillip’s son is Jesse.  Jesse is Jorg’s grandson.  On their website, young Jesse is affectionately described as “…a delightful handful”.  Mind you, I did find out that one of the biblical meanings of Jesse is, “God’s gift” and after having tasted this wine for the first time, I consider it god’s gift to the punters who partake in this delightful handful.

The colour didn’t really give much away but it has a pretty impressive start on the nose.  It made me think that the progression from step 1 (colour) to step 2 (aromas) was so good it could only mean the third and final step (taste) is going to be even better.  Answer, yes, definitely yes!

Tasting it, those softer, mid range berries are the go here.  Blueberries for sure, dark(ish) berries as well without dominating, plums too that seem to give it a nice fullness (or richness is probably a better descriptor but I’ll let you work that out).  There is a nice little touch of sweetness thereabouts, dark chocolate I reckon, that balances out all the fruit influence and does a very good job of it too.  The tannins are there but they are not nasty buggers.  They are there offering up some good support/structure so it will live for a few years benefiting the wine and ultimately benefiting you.

Gartelmann Wines Website

Region: Mudgee, NSW     Price: $30     Source: Sample courtesy of Define Wine

I’ve read a couple of reviews about this wine already (here and here) so I had a pretty good insight about what to expect when it came to trying this wine.  I actually debated whether to even review this wine because of just how renown these two bloggers are.  I was thinking, what could I add?  Anyway, here goes.

Dee-bloody-licious!  I’d like to finish my review there but I owe it to the Yelland & Papps team that sent me this gem to put on my Sherlock Holmes hat and have a closer look.

I have to tell ya it was difficult even to get past the first stage!  Smelling it.  I felt a bit like a council worker at this point.  I lent on the shovel(s) of black and red fruit aromas while getting my breath back but nothing progressed at a fast pace.

Tasting it revealed there was a private contractor involved.  No time wasted, plenty going on and lots to think about yet in an orderly manner.  73% whole bunch to get your mind ticking over, 14 days on skins to add another layer of interest, wild yeast fermentation and 28% new French oak.  Plums, blueberries and earthiness adding to the appeal.  There’s a licorice effect but it’s not quite licorice.  Fennel, maybe (because I’ve experienced a bit of it recently) could be the flavour.  Either way, I like it.  Actually, I love this wine!

Y&P Website

Region: Barossa Valley, SA     Price: $40     Source: Sample

It’s been quite a while since I’ve tried a Kennedy wine.  For no other reason than, well, there isn’t one really.  This one reminded me of why I should revisit some of the smaller wineries/producers that have impressed me in the past.  Now, I’m not going to say which bottle warehouse I bought this from but I was so glad it was there.

Apologies, I’m going to use a ‘formula’ (for want of a better word) for this blog post.  I saw it on an Instagram and thought it was simple, succinct and wouldn’t draw on people’s attention too much (to be more specific, bore you.  I’ll be interested to know your thoughts).

Colour: It was deep and dark all the way to the rim. It had a such a sheen to it as well.  Attractive to say the least.

Nose: It took some work but black fruits got me in.  Star anise (or fennel or cheap licorice) and a high percentage of dark chocolate for sure.

Palate:  There’s some licorice with dark fruits including plums.  There’s a slight fruit sweetness that balances sour black cherries.  Medium to full bodied, dense yet delicate with a creamy like (oak?) impact on tasting.  It is so very smooth with a long, long finish. Don’t expect the cool climate white pepper.  It may be savoury but the fruit is the crowning glory for me.  Tannin?  Zip, zilch, zero.  Very nicely done.

Kennedy Wines Website

Region: Heathcote, Victoria     Price: $25     Source: Retail Purchase